Most website projects that run late do not fail on design or code. They stall waiting for content, decisions or logins. A few hours of preparation up front can save weeks later. Here is the checklist we share with every new client.

1. One clear goal for the website

Decide what a successful visit looks like: an enquiry, a booking, a WhatsApp message or a sale. Every page and button should push towards that action, so agree on it first.

2. Who your customers are, and what they ask

List your two or three main customer types and the questions they ask before buying. Those questions become your page structure, your FAQs and, later, your SEO content.

3. Your brand assets

Collect your logo in the highest quality you have (ideally SVG or AI), brand colours, fonts and any guidelines. If you do not have these yet, that is a branding job to do first. It is quicker than redesigning later.

4. Real photos and proof

Photos of your team, premises, products and completed projects outperform stock images every time. Add certificates, client logos, reviews and case-study numbers you can stand behind.

5. Content owners and deadlines

Decide who writes or approves each page. If writing is not your strength, budget for copywriting. It is one of the highest-return parts of a website.

6. Access to your accounts

Gather logins for your domain registrar, hosting, current website, Google Analytics, Search Console and Google Business Profile. Missing access is the most common reason launches slip.

7. Three websites you like, and why

Share a few sites you admire, ideally including competitors, and note exactly what you like: the layout, the tone, the way they show prices. It gives your designer a fast, shared starting point.

With these seven things ready, a typical business website can move from kick-off to launch much faster, and the result will be built around your goals instead of guesswork. Tell us about your project and we will send you our full project-planning template.