Launching a website is an exciting step, but preparation is key to making a great first impression. Use this checklist to ensure your site is polished, secure, and ready to go live without a hitch.
Domain Accessibility
Ensure your domain works both with and without “www.” Check if both www.yourdomain.com and yourdomain.com display the website correctly.
SSL Certificate
Make sure the SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is installed and functioning. In 2024, this is usually automated, but it’s worth double-checking for the padlock icon in the browser to avoid issues.
Favicon
This small browser icon might seem insignificant, but its absence suggests a lack of attention to detail.
Security
- Use strong, unique passwords. Avoid common combinations like admin/admin.
- Depending on your platform, research and implement best security practices. For WordPress users, check out quick security guides.
Mobile Optimization
In 2024, most users access websites via mobile devices. Even if templates claim to be “mobile-friendly,” manually navigate the entire site on a smartphone to ensure everything displays correctly.
Functioning Links
Verify that all important links, including the main menu, call-to-action buttons, and contact links, work properly. For larger websites, use a broken link checker like Ahrefs to identify non-functioning links.
Updated Cache
Clear your cache to ensure visitors see the latest version of your site.
Fast Loading Times
A slow website can lose visitors within seconds. Test your website speed with tools like webpagetest.org.
Images Display Correctly
Ensure all images, especially on critical pages, are visible and correctly positioned.
Clear Navigation
Make sure your website is easy to navigate. Avoid confusing layouts or unclear options that frustrate users. Your content should guide visitors smoothly toward their goals—and yours.
Cookie Notice
Display a functional cookie banner to comply with regulations, as most websites use cookies.
Legal Pages
Include terms and conditions, privacy policies, and other required legal pages.
Accurate Contact Information
Double-check your phone number, email, address, and map settings.
Functional Contact Forms
- Are forms easy to complete?
- Do required fields work correctly?
- Is spam protection in place?
- Do emails arrive correctly, containing all necessary information?
Meta Data
Ensure your site includes meta descriptions for search engines to understand your content.
Backup
Set up a reliable backup process, following the 3-2-1 rule: 3 copies of your data, 2 stored locally, and 1 stored off-site.
Accessibility
Your site should be usable for people with disabilities. Ensure text is legible with proper fonts, minimum size 16px, and sufficient contrast.
No Placeholder Text
Remove any placeholder text like “Lorem Ipsum” left over from the design process.
Grammar and Spelling
Review your content for typos and grammatical errors, especially if you offer content services.
Text Structure
Structure content for easy reading. Break up large blocks of text to maintain user attention.
Double-Check Critical Pages
Prioritize mission-critical pages (e.g., homepage, service pages) and ensure they work perfectly.
Fresh Eyes
Ask someone who hasn’t seen the site before to review it. Their feedback can reveal overlooked issues.
