copy deck = draft

Phase 3: Writing - Creating the Copy Deck
The next step in the process is to begin putting the content together. Remember, content is not just copy - it is text, graphics, quotes, advertising and active links, <TITLE> tags and more. Understanding how to approach the creation of the actual content takes experience. A good way to start is to determine the readiness of the content. What content will be ported over in its existing format from the current site? What content exists in digital form and needs little to no editing? What content needs to be created from scratch? Divide the content into chunks of deliverables that make sense, and attach due dates and review cycles to each chunk. Plan for enough time to review and edit the copy offline, and then to review and edit the copy once it is integrated into the HTML of the site itself. Paper does not screen copy make.



The copy deck can be developed in stages, starting with a description of what will be on the page "a short paragraph or two" and the call to action on the page - shown by an actual HTML link or some other graphics. Also consider sidebar information and other page elements such as quotes or advertising. The web design team will need to plan for these elements as they work out the wireframing of the page in their own site-structuring phase. Working collaboratively during this stage is a must. Potential confusion and frustration often occur during this timeframe, when the client and copywriter just want to start writing directly into the HTML of a page, and the web design team needs to know what goes on the page in order to start the design process effectively.