Our Process

The Minot Technology development process involves five stages that combine efficient project management and client communication with the technological and graphic creativity that makes each Minot Technology job unique and successful.

The first stage, Exploration and Discovery, lets us learn the identity and needs of each individual client and project. We listen to a client's needs and learn the fundamental aspects of their business and brand identity. Our producers, information architects, technologists and designers then investigate everything from content functionality and technology frameworks to graphic design concepts. Typically, this stage allows us to help a client focus its new media objectives and produce the basic project plan.

Stage two, Planning, culminates in a detailed blueprint which outlines all project details prior to beginning production. During the planning phase, we work closely with clients to devise asset lists, functionality specifications, technical requirements and the business logic behind the specific application and database design. Our design group begins to develop the basic look and feel upon which the project's user experience rests. Our system architects and technologists create the basic logic that will support the scope and functionality of the project. Simultaneously our information designers build the structural framework that unites the user experience with site functionality and programming parameters. This is typically in the form of a complex site map and a breakdown of the content specifications of each top-level page

Stage three, Development and Production, involves the actual execution of project deliverables. The design group completes the design of secondary pages in layered graphic files and an overall style guide that sets the site's visual identity. Our production group transposes the page designs into functioning web pages, while our system architects complete construction of customized database applications and publishing tools. Finally, we draw upon a wide variety of other skills such as animation, illustration and sound design to execute the appropriate user experience for the brand identity of each client.

Stage four, Deployment, encompasses the hand off of project deliverables and integration (or creation) of appropriate client-hosting systems. Our quality assurance team analyzes all elements of production for accuracy, usability and adherence to project specifications, including the degree to which they achieve the overall desired user experience. Normally, we also finalize and deliver a style guide and technical documentation at the end of this stage.

Once the production process for a given project is complete, Minot constantly seeks to enhance and expand the project goals and achievements. Our favorite projects allow us an on-going sense of ownership and responsibility. This ranges from active development of brand identity and content production to constant adaptation of project deliverables and support for evolving client needs.