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.