Launching a New Website

My first job here was to get this project moving. There had been a lot of talking about the subject and 'a new website' had become overwhelming as a topic. Launching a new website can be an exciting but daunting task.

There are many factors to consider when creating a website that will attract and engage visitors. In this blog post, I will discuss some important steps I take when launching a new website.

1. Define your goals and target audience

Before you start designing your website, it’s important to define your goals and target audience. What is the purpose of your website? Are you selling a product or service? Are you trying to build brand awareness? Who is your target audience? These questions will help you create a website that is tailored to your specific goals and audience.

2. Choose the right platform

Choosing the right platform for your website is crucial. There are many options available, including WordPress, Wix, Durable and Squarespace. Consider your budget, technical expertise, and the features you need when selecting a platform. How often do you want to update it? Do you want to update it yourself or have it done externally? How flexible does the CMS need to be?

3. Develop a content strategy

Next on the list is developing a content strategy - it's essential for creating a website that will attract and engage visitors. Consider the types of content you will create, such as blog posts, tone of voice, videos, and infographics. Develop a schedule for creating and publishing content to keep your website fresh and up-to-date. Try to work a month in advance at least so you aren't panicking trying to think of content topics last minute.

4. Design your website

Designing your website is an important step in creating a website that is visually appealing and easy to navigate. Consider the colors, fonts, and layout of your website. Do you have a brand? If so should you? What colours should you include? Be careful not to make each page too busy with colours and segments - it makes it harder to read. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and optimised for search engines.

5. Test your website

Testing your website is crucial before launching it to the public. Make sure all links are working, pages load quickly, and the website is easy to navigate. Test your website on different devices and browsers to ensure it is accessible to everyone. If you can send it to a few business collegues for feedback. 

6. Launch your website

Once you have tested your website and made any necessary changes, it’s time to launch your website. Make sure you have a plan for promoting your website, such as social media and email marketing.

7. Monitor your website

Monitoring your website is important to ensure it is performing well and meeting your goals. Use analytics tools to track website traffic, user behavior, and conversions. Use this data to make informed decisions about future updates and improvements.

8. Maintain your website

Maintaining your website is an ongoing process. You need to make time for this. Make sure your website is updated regularly with fresh content and security updates. Monitor your website for any issues and address them promptly.

In conclusion, launching a new website requires careful planning and execution. By following these steps, you can create a website that is tailored to your goals and audience, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Remember to test and monitor your website regularly and maintain its content to ensure it continues to perform well.