Website development is a complex process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some key points to keep in mind when developing a website:
Understand the products/services the business sells: This is important because it helps you create a website that accurately reflects what the business does and what it offers.
Research your target audience: Understanding the demographics and psychographics of your target audience is essential in creating a website that appeals to them.
Research your competition: It’s important to know who your competition is and what they are doing to attract customers. Check out their website, learn their USPs, and check their UI.
Create a website structure: Before you start creating content, it’s important to create a website structure, which is basically a list of all web-pages that you are planning to add to your website.
Plan the website’s functionality: Determine the functionality you need, such as forms or integration with payment gateways or email subscriptions.
Choose your website development technology: You can develop a website in HTML or CMS, such as WordPress or Wix.
Book the Domain Name and Hosting Space: Depending on the checklist, decide which hosting package you want to buy.
Write macro points for each webpage: This helps to keep your content focused and ensures that each page has a clear purpose.
Create content for each webpage: Use the SEO keywords shortlisted to create content for each webpage.
Plan the layout for each webpage: Research the internet for design ideas, draw the layout on paper or Canva, or use a tool called Mockflow. You can also use a reference of the WordPress theme you have shortlisted.
Create one page at a time: Remember to check the preview in desktop version, tablet version, and mobile version before publishing.
Ensure accessibility: Make sure the website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.
Test and optimize: Test the website regularly to ensure it is running smoothly and optimize it for better performance.
Test the contact forms and other integrations: Check whether they are working properly, and if there are autoresponder emails, ensure they are shooting in a timely fashion.
Add tracking codes: Add tracking codes of Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel, Google Ads Conversion Tracking, LinkedIn Insight Tag, etc., depending on your digital marketing activities.
Remember, creating a successful website takes time, effort, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can create a website that accurately reflects your business and appeals to your target audience. If you have any questions, please add them in the comments, and we will reply as soon as possible.
NOTE: Also, the next step would be to optimize your website for SEO, so here is the SEO Checklist.