Final answer:
Website development typically involves a sequence of stages including design, development, and testing, where teams iterate on prototypes, conduct evaluations, and refine the site before launch. Option 2 is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Website development is typically segmented into various stages that reflect the evolution and refinement of a site from concept to a fully functional online presence. While different methodologies may describe these stages using various terms, one commonly recognized sequence includes the design stage, development stage, and testing stage. In the design stage, teams plan the website's layout, user experience, and visual elements.
Following this, in the development stage, the actual code is written to build the website's functionality. Lastly, the testing stage involves rigorously testing the website for usability issues, bugs, and performance problems before launching it publicly.
The design process is often iterative, necessitating recurrent prototyping and evaluation. As prototypes are tested, they may reveal new insights into the design which require modifications and further testing. This iterative approach ensures that the final product meets user needs and functions as intended.
In comparison to the early years of the web, often referred to as Web 1.0, where tools like Microsoft's Frontpage allowed for easier DIY website creation, the complexity of modern websites has increased significantly, requiring more sophisticated tools and expertise.
The design and development of websites involves a dynamic balance between content, visuals, and formatting, making decisions on what tools to use and how to present information effectively a non-trivial task. As such, each stage of website development is crucial in creating a successful online presence.