The One Stop Project Backstory
About 2 years ago, I was getting into web development and needed a project to start learning how to code web apps when an interesting proposal fell in my lap. One Stop Truck and Auto in Hickory North Carolina was interested in beginning to develop their web presence. I had just helped them install a simple network setup that allowed them to have a guest network, and their own internal network when they asked if I knew anyone who could tackle the project of getting a website built. Now, I had never really built many true websites that weren’t built with a drag and drop building tool, but I was an active tech professional, in school getting my CyberSecurity degree, and I did have coding knowledge and was needing experience. Accordingly, I offered myself up for the project.
The Early One Stop Website Build
I was already studying how to build websites and web apps with Django and Python backends, so I took this as an opportunity to begin putting some legs to my studies. Initially, I built a VERY simple dynamic app using Django template language (DTL) to pull elements, text, content, and such to the frontend. I spent hours formatting CSS and HTML trying to make a compelling, mobile friendly webapp. I built database models, routes, updated migrations, made a poor attempt at adding SEO, tested, implemented new features and then stuck a Google form embedded in the app to collect leads…yep. A Google Form…not my proudest moment looking back, but recently I revisited this project knowing that it needed some love since I have made leaps in bounds with my skills and I updated the website.
The New and Improved One Stop Truck and Auto website!
After speaking with the client, I told them I wanted to improve their SEO standings and make improvements to their site’s flow and look. So the work began.
Now since I had most of the backend functionality it place with the exception of form fields and a few dynamic component fields, all that needed to be done was make it a truly recognizable, strongly branded, SEO friendly website. BUT since making a beautiful UI is not my strongest skillset, I used my mind and some seriously cool tools to upgrade their web site!
So…
Using Codex and Hermes agent running on my development server, I grabbed the old source code and gave Herme’s a task. Use open source elements, font and icon libraries, and UI components to build a more beautiful, useful UI/UX experience.
Then, using Hermes we implemented a privacy policy page, cookie notice, and a bunch of encrypted forms to collect user leads.
A Clear CTA for One Stop Truck and Auto
One of the main things that was missing from the original website was the lack of a clear call to action (CTA). So based on the clients need, we developed a strong call to action. Actually…we needed 2.
Collect leads for custom builds, parts and installations and aftermarket vehicle upgrades!
Get calls to schedule appointments for repairs, maintenance and inspections!
With this in mind, we were able to build a series of flows where all roads lead to generating a lead or an appointment.
So now, we bring it all together…
The Final Results - One Stop Truck and Auto
We setup a repo to track changes to the website, made migrations to the production database, moved the code production, found a few issues that arose, fixed them and ensured they were live! The site is connected to Google Search and we are seeing it start to pop on Google now!
If you want to see the final result, or if you need upgrades or repairs to your vehicle
Visit: onestoptruckandautollc.com