What should be discussed with the client before creating a website for them?

[TheGAME1264]

Sidney, I've read all three of your posts and I strongly object to all of them. How dare you come along with your independent thought and your comments that would have taken more than six brain cells to come up with yourself? It all depends on the client? Sir, do you not know that all clients are exactly the same and all websites are exactly the same and that's why we need design companies with ISO-Beverly-Hills-90210 Certified Processes to make sure that all websites are created equally and that there is nothing to distinguish them from one another?

YOUR REVOLUTIONARY IDEAS WILL COMPLETELY RUIN THE INTERNET AND IT WILL BE BROKEN AND DOGS WILL MATE WITH CATS AND IT'LL ALL BE YOUR FAULT.

[TheGAME1264]

By the way, all smartassedness aside, if you're lurking or you're new here, pay attention to what Sidney's been saying in his first few posts. The dude obviously knows what he's talking about and has given some really good advice here. So respek, Sidney.

[sidsoul]

Lol thanks. Just trying to share, that's all, it has nothing to do with google authorship lol

[sezo111]

I may want to start my own company making websites for individuals and businesses in the near future. I'm trying to familiarize myself with the steps to take when dealing with a client who wants a website, particularly the beginning conversation and series of questions. For example: let's say I own a company and a client calls up and says "Hi I need a website made for my business." What's next?

So far I've got asking questions about their:

-Budget
-Deadline
-What they want the purpose of their website to be
-Target audience
-If they need a store implemented in their site
-If they have a logo
-If they have any pictures / graphics to add
-If they will provide the writing

Are these all good questions? Please tell me what other questions I'm missing.

My next question is after I've gotten the main information I need, what is the next step? Should I make multiple designs/themes and have them pick their favorite or should I just stick with one?

I think its enough...

Best of luck for your future