Pre-launch process

Here is a list to follow for pre-website launch. 

Content Preparation

  • Text and Spelling: Ensure all text is free from spelling errors and grammar issues.
  • Formatting and Layout: Verify page and content formatting is appropriate and consistent across all pages.
  • Content Completion: Remove all placeholder text and confirm all pages are fully populated with content.
  • Legal Pages: Include a Privacy Policy and Terms of Service (generated via getterms.io or similar service).
  • Favicon: Create and check that the favicon is correctly displayed, including retina display compatibility.
  • Copyright Statement: Ensure the footer includes “Website Design + Conversion Strategy by Launch Digital.”
  • 404 Page: Create an informative 404 error page to guide users back to active pages.
  • Authorship: Assign the correct authorship to pages and posts where necessary.

SEO Optimization

  • Keyword Optimization: Ensure each page is optimized around a specific keyword.
  • Canonical URLs: Set canonical URLs to prevent duplicate content issues.
  • YOAST SEO: Install and configure YOAST SEO plugin for WordPress sites.
  • H1 Tags: Include one H1 tag per page, incorporating the main keyword.
  • Meta Elements: Apply unique meta titles and descriptions for each page.
  • Alt Tags: Update all image alt tags for accessibility and SEO.
  • YOAST SEO Analysis: Achieve SEO-friendly status on YOAST for all pages.

Social Media Integration

  • Account Links: Integrate and link correctly to social media accounts using the appropriate APIs for seamless integration.

Cross-Browser and Device Rendering

  • Ensure the website displays and functions correctly across key browsers and devices, including Internet Explorer, Chrome (Android Mobile, Windows, iOS Mobile), Firefox (Windows, Mac), Safari (Mac, iOS Mobile).

Functionality Checks

  • Forms: Test all forms for correct processing, including required fields and validation checks. Ensure forms direct to the correct recipient and have a confirmation page or event tracking.
  • Search Functionality: Test site search and search results for accuracy and functionality.

Speed, Security, and Performance Optimization

  • Speed Test: Run a GTmetrix speed test to identify and optimize loading times.
  • Image Optimization: Confirm all images are optimized for fast loading without sacrificing quality.
  • Performance Plugins: Install and set up performance optimization plugins like SG Optimise (for SiteGround hosting) or equivalent.
  • Security Measures: Install and configure security plugins such as iThemes Security, enable two-factor authentication, and mask the login page to enhance security.

Final Steps

  • Review: Conduct a final review with stakeholders to ensure all aspects meet or exceed project requirements.
  • Launch: Schedule and execute the site launch, followed by monitoring for any immediate issues post-launch.