Website Plan: How to Build a Strong Foundation for Your New Website

A website plan acts as the project scope for building a successful site. It is a document that outlines the goals, requirements, and expectations for a new website. Therefore, it is important to create a comprehensive site outline before the project begins. Doing so ensures that all parties involved have a clear understanding of the project and can work together effectively.

Define the Purpose and Goals of Your Website

Start your website plan by defining the purpose of your site and what you hope to achieve. Identify your target audience, the services or products you offer, and the ways customers can connect with you. As a result, you will have a clear vision that guides the rest of the project. For additional insights, see Google’s SEO Starter Guide.

Determine the Scope of the Website

Next, identify the pages and features you want to include. Consider the functionality, design, and content you need to meet your goals. Doing a thorough review at this stage helps avoid surprises mid-project and keeps everyone on track and on budget.

See also: Website Maintenance Services 

Establish the Timeline

Determine the timeline for the project, including key milestones and deadlines. A realistic website plan helps you stay on track and ensures the project is completed on time. Remember, the more features you want, the longer it will take. Transparency at this stage builds trust with your developer.

Define the Budget

Establish the budget for your project, including design and development costs, hosting fees, and ongoing maintenance. By clarifying early, you reduce the risk of unexpected costs. While new functionality mid-project may require adjustments, budget increases should be rare if your website plan is well-prepared.

Provide Content and Branding Guidelines

Your website plan should also outline guidelines for content, branding, and messaging. This includes brand colors, typography, and visual elements that reflect your identity. In addition, having this ready makes the design and development phases smoother.

Outline Technical Requirements

Identify technical requirements such as e-commerce functionality, custom forms, or integration with other platforms. For example, many businesses require their websites to connect with CRM tools or donation platforms, especially nonprofits. For accessibility guidance, review the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines.

Include Contact Information

Finally, provide the contact details of all key stakeholders. This is especially relevant for nonprofit clients, who often have multiple decision-makers. Clear communication ensures the website plan runs smoothly from start to finish.

Why a Website Plan Matters

By following these steps, you can create a comprehensive website plan that aligns with your goals and keeps everyone focused. Ultimately, this preparation helps ensure your new website meets business needs and exceeds expectations.

Ready to get started? Contact Grateful Web Services today to discuss your website.