We’ve been creating websites for organisations since 2006. Over time, we’ve developed a website project checklist to help organisations get started with a digital project.
1. Make Time
Creating a successful website requires collaboration. We know there is an organisation to run, but so do we. If time can’t be committed to the project, consider delegating it to someone who has it. This helps ensure the website is completed efficiently and without delays.
2. Strategy and Planning
One of the main reasons a project fails is lack of planning. Before starting, define these key elements:
- WHO – Identify the target audience and how they interact online.
- WHAT – Define the goals and how success will be measured.
- HOW – Plan how best to communicate with the audience to achieve those goals.
A strong strategy ensures the website works for the organisation instead of acting as an online placeholder.
3. Set a Budget
A website should be seen as an investment. A well-designed digital presence can support an organisation long-term. We follow a structured approach to deliver custom solutions that offer good value and a positive return. We also offer ongoing support after launch, and some of our clients have been with us for over a decade.
4. Establish the Organisation’s Identity
An organisation’s identity is more than a name and logo. It influences how customers perceive the brand. Key steps include:
- Registering a business name and obtaining an ABN/ACN.
- Securing a domain name that matches the brand.
- Setting up professional email accounts.
- Claiming social media handles early to protect the brand identity.
5. Artwork, Content & Images
A strong website requires clear branding, high-quality content and engaging visuals.
Artwork
- Develop a logo and branding that reflects the organisation.
- Organise business stationery, signage and marketing materials.
- Research design ideas and competitor websites.
Content
Website content should clearly communicate the organisation’s value and be SEO-friendly. Consider:
- What key points to highlight on the home page.
- How the About page builds credibility and trust.
- Clear descriptions of products and services.
- Testimonials, case studies and reviews.
- Contact details that are easy to find.
It matters that as much content as possible is provided at the start of the project, since this shapes how the site gets planned. A client might initially ask for “a Services page,” so the site gets planned around one page, and then twenty pages of content arrive. Content can always be restructured, but restructuring can add delays and cost. Providing content early helps avoid this.
Images
A professional website needs high-quality visuals. As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words, and online that’s especially true.
- Aim for at least one high-quality image per page.
- Consider professional photography or high-resolution stock images. Poor-quality smartphone photos are one of the fastest ways to make an otherwise good website look unprofessional.
- AI images can be generated, but be sure to adequately train AI to reflect the organisation before relying on this. Without that training, all of the AI images will look like everyone else’s.
6. Build for Search, and Plan Marketing
SEO helps search engines find a website, and structured content improves visibility in AI-powered search tools too. Getting this right from the start makes a significant difference to how easily people find the organisation. Before creating content, it’s worth being clear on what outcomes are wanted from the digital presence, and how the website fits into the broader marketing strategy, rather than treating search and marketing as an afterthought once the site is built.
7. Develop a Social Media Strategy
Social media should be intentional, not random. Choose platforms that support the goals and plan how to engage the audience effectively. See our social media marketing FAQ for more detail.
