Before you start to build anything, you should list the pages you will need, determine if you will need “Posts” (include categories) and map out the website using the following method.

This “IS” the process you must use. I am not one for rules but this one I stand by. A few years ago a guy named Jesse James Garrett decided it was necessary for everyone planning a website to use the same “language” and “process”. He wrote a brilliant book that easily informs how a group can communicate these essential parts to beginning and building an interactive project.

I highly recommend you read this book if you decide to stick with web design as a career. Anyone who wants to hire you that is good, will be following this process or something darn close to it. The Elements of User Experience

He created a visual info graphic displaying the concepts of the book:
And then the stripped down version:
I suggest you start by downloading this PDF and digest these concepts. It will only help you in understanding how to work with interactive media… and not miss anything because you … forgot. Remember this: Paper wins. If you have it written down and drawn out, you can use it as your checklist and have great success.

Also, it is a great way of communicating with your client. It spells out your projects scope and you build what is in it. A CONTRACT! Who knew it could be so helpful. Yes, it prevents what we call “Scope Creep”.

Every time I see Jesse, I thank him for his gift of intellectual property to the industry.