What should I do before building PHP websites?

I am going to build PHP web application. I want your suggestions to make it easy. Also is it ok to use any PHP framework, if yes then which? Also can anyone tell me the process to make any web application.
Thank you

 

Your question is far to vague for anyone to be able to give you any real useful advice.
What is the application for, what features does it need?
How much PHP knowledge do you have?

 

I want to build PHP application for News related site, but I don't want to use any CMS. I have a good knowledge on PHP but this is first time I am gonna build something big
The problem I have is I don't know where to start. I want to know what process you guys use to make any application.

 

Practice with different frameworks, learn how they work, and then build your own PHP application from scratch.

 

Thanks @cronik
But it will take time...
Can you suggest me any framework?

 

There are a bunch of them, maybe CakePHP or Symfony would be a good start. Also, have you done basic tutorials and learned stuff like this yet: http://css-tricks.com/php-for-beginners-building-your-first-simple-cms/ ? It may take time but you will learn so much more if you play around with different frameworks and basic CMSs. I would start the project of building my own from scratch, but instead of rushing through it, why not get ideas and look at the way other content management systems work in the process?

 

Thank you @cronik
Can you tell me what process you use before starting to build any web application. I mean how you choose steps to reach your goal.

 

How long is too long? You are at the point where you don't have anything but a vague idea of what you want to do. What will the database need to contain and what relationship are necessary for optimization? What needs to be contained in cookies and sessions? what is the response time target. What is the expect traffic volume over time. If you have to ask about which frame work to use in combination of not wanting to use a CMS, then see the first comment from @cronik because you are a long ways away from being ready to take on a large application until you have answers, not questions.

 

I think you are right @COBOLdinosaur
If anyone have more suggestions then please let me know....

 

Well I see that you have a clear goal. So why not start with baby steps. You need domain and hosting. Then make the design you like (HTML and CSS) and finally go for functionality (PHP)