Website launch checklist for your first website
Check your content, mobile layout, forms, domain, and search settings with this practical website launch checklist for beginners.
This website launch checklist is for a website built from a template, theme, or AI-generated draft. Use this checklist on the actual preview, then repeat the key checks on the published site.
1. Read all the content
Read every page from top to bottom. Look for placeholder names, contact details, prices, project descriptions, social links, and images that do not belong to your business. AI often uses sample content that doesn't quite hit the mark, so replace anything that doesn't reflect what you actually offer.
2. Check value proposition
Imagine someone who has never heard of your business. Can they understand what you offer within seconds on landing on your homepage? Make sure the headline explains what you do, who you help, how you're different and what the next steps are.
3. Click on every link
Click every navigation item, logo, button, card, footer link, and social link. Check where each one takes you: a “Book a call” button should open your booking page, not the template's example calendar. Fix any broken or incorrect links, and remove links to pages that aren't ready yet.
4. View your website on a phone
Review your website on an actual phone if you can or view it on a narrow browser window. Check that the text is comfortable to read and buttons are easy to tap without zooming.
- Read long headings and check that no words are cut off.
- Look for content that spills off the screen or wraps in an awkward way.
- Open and close the mobile menu.
- Check that image crops still show important subjects.
- Make sure sticky elements do not cover the content or controls.
5. Test forms
Check that every form sends submissions to the right place. Send a test forms with sample details and confirm it reaches the intended inbox or service. Try leaving a required field empty or entering an invalid email address, and check that the form clearly explains what needs fixing.
6. Test checkout flows
Does your website include a checkout or account creation? Try every step as a visitor, from choosing a product or creating an account to the final confirmation. Use the payment provider's test option for purchases, and check that the order or account confirmation reaches your inbox.
7. Set up the page titles and search descriptions
Give each important page a distinct title that describes what it offers, such as “Garden design consultations | Studio name” instead of “Home”. Add a short description explaining what someone will find on that page.
8. Publish, then check again
Congratulations on building your site! Now, publish your website, then open its address in a private browser window to see it as a visitor. Check the homepage, another page and the main contact, booking or purchase button. Does it load fast enough? Does it look as intended?
Your final check
- Read content: Read and ensure final content and contact details are in place.
- Review links: Links and forms reach the intended destination.
- Review responsive design: Mobile pages are readable and usable.
- Add in meta descriptions: Titles, descriptions, and sharing details describe your business.
- Test flows: Test out every flow the visitor will touch to ensure it flows as intended
