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As with most design projects, the first step when creating a website is to perform research. Some of this research will be done with the client to get an understanding of their needs, and other research will be done to learn more about a specific industry. When meeting with your client, you’ll be looking to discover as much as possible to help you develop an outline for the site and eventually design it. This includes asking about their target audience, goals, creative direction and other variables that may affect what you can offer the client, such as budget and deadline. Most likely before (to be prepared) and after gathering information from the client you will perform some industry or market research. This can be as simple as looking to see what other websites in the field look like to in-depth research with focus groups. The level of research performed will depend on the client’s budget and your existing knowledge of the industry.