Lesson Outcomes

After completing this lesson, learners will be able to:

• Explain what packaging and deployment mean in web development.
• Identify the steps involved in preparing a website for deployment.
• Understand how files are organised for deployment.
• Describe basic deployment methods.
• Recognise the importance of testing before deployment.

Overview

After developing a website, it must be prepared and published so that users can access it online.

This process involves:

• Packaging → preparing all files and resources
• Deployment → uploading the website to a server

Proper packaging and deployment ensure that a website:

• Works correctly
• Loads all resources properly
• Is accessible to users

1. What is Packaging?

Packaging is the process of preparing a website’s files for deployment.

This includes:

• Organising files and folders
• Ensuring all resources are included
• Checking file paths
• Preparing code for release

2. What is Deployment?

Deployment is the process of making a website available online.

It involves:

• Uploading files to a server
• Making the site accessible via a URL
• Ensuring everything functions correctly

3. Preparing Files for Deployment

Before deployment, files must be properly organised.

Key Steps

1. Organise folders clearly
2. Ensure all files are included
3. Check file paths
4. Remove unnecessary files
5. Optimise images and media

4. Testing Before Deployment

Testing ensures that the website works correctly.

What to Test

• Links and navigation
• Images and media
• Forms functionality
• Layout and design
• Browser compatibility

5. Deployment Methods

There are different ways to deploy a website.

5.1 Manual Upload

• Files are uploaded using tools like FTP
• Requires server access

5.2 Hosting Platforms

Websites can be deployed using hosting services.

Examples:

• Shared hosting
• Cloud hosting

5.3 Version Control Deployment

Using platforms like GitHub to manage and deploy code.

6. Importance of Packaging and Deployment

Proper packaging and deployment are important because they:

• Ensure website functionality
• Prevent errors
• Improve performance
• Make the website accessible

Key Notes

• Packaging prepares files for deployment.
• Deployment makes a website available online.
• Proper file organisation is essential.
• Testing ensures the website works correctly.
• Deployment can be done manually or through hosting platforms.
• Good deployment practices improve reliability and performance.