Vendor should outline its ability to perform the proposed scope tasks in the following seven general areas: Research/Discovery; Design; Development; Testing; Launch; Training; and Site Maintenance. We recognize that each vendor’s project approach will inherently reflect their work style. In the interest of DCA to effectively evaluate vendor qualifications, however, we expect the vendor to describe its plan to execute each stage of their process and discuss related milestones and outcomes within the general framework of these scope guidelines.

Research / Discovery

We expect the vendor to help refine the project’s goals and objectives, strategize and assist in building web content, and identify additional features to be considered for future build-outs. This process could involve a series of interviews or other informal interactions with DCA staff and relevant stakeholders.
An expected outcome of the research phase is a Project Charter. This document, at a minimum, should define the content scope, schedule, audience, technical features, and branding strategies of the new site. This document should also state and prioritize project goals.

Design

The vendor should present the information architecture envisioned for the site. This architecture should illustrate principles of user experience and interface design.
A sitemap and associated wireframes are expected to be produced and shared during, and at the conclusion of, the design process.

Development

We expect to engage with the vendor’s development process through a series of user interface and functionality tests. An iterative process that consists of design, development, and testing is preferred.
We also expect that the development complies with Section 508 rules and meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 success criteria levels A and AA, as outlined by the W3C.
The development process should include page load optimization. The site should be coded in a way that ensures fast page loading. Refer to Yahoo’s list of performance rules.

Testing

Thorough user testing is expected and should lead to an agreed set of adjustments to help meet the goals of the site. A mixed-method approach to testing that includes a combination of focus group, A/B testing, or multivariate testing would be preferred.
Before launch, the site should be load-tested to ensure that the site performs well in normal and above normal site traffic (spikes).

Launch

The vendor should develop a site launch strategy with DCA. This may consist of a series of soft and hard launch events. Goals for each launch event should be stated and agreed upon by DCA and the vendor.
The launch phase should involve search engine optimization.

Training

A detailed documentation of site usage and administration will be produced. This document should outline the technical steps for uploading and managing web content, and administering users and groups.
In addition to documentation, we expect the vendor to conduct a series of training sessions to ensure that select DCA staff can assume basic site maintenance and administration that complies with Section 508 rules and meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 success criteria levels A and AA, as outlined by the W3C.

Site Maintenance

We expect an ongoing contractual relationship with the vendor for periodic technical support and potential build-outs.