Before launching a website, a comprehensive checklist helps teams systematically review and avoid oversights. This article uses a business website as an example to explain how to create a pre-launch checklist.
1. Understand the Purpose of the Checklist
A pre-launch checklist is not just a formality but a critical step to minimize post-launch issues. It helps the team confirm before going live: whether functions are complete, content is accurate, technology is stable, and security is ensured. Before creating the checklist, determine the website type (e.g., showcase, marketing, e-commerce) as priorities differ.
2. Outline Core Review Dimensions
Typically, consider the following dimensions:
- Functional Testing: Includes link navigation, form submission, search functionality, registration/login, shopping flow (if applicable), cross-browser compatibility, and mobile responsiveness.
- Content Review: Check all pages for typos, image clarity, correct contact information, accurate company description, and up-to-date news/product information.
- Technical Configuration: Domain resolution, SSL certificate installation, server response time, page load speed, 404 and 301 redirect settings, and sitemap submission.
- Security Measures: Backend permission settings, database backups, firewall configuration, and basic protection against SQL injection and XSS attacks.
- SEO Basics: Ensure Title and Description are filled, URL structure is friendly, H tags are used appropriately, and internal links are functional.
3. Create the Checklist by Phases
Divide the checklist into three phases: Development & Testing, Pre-Launch, and Launch Day. Set key checkpoints for each phase.
Phase 1: Development & Testing
- Complete all functional tests and bug fixes in the test environment.
- Verify data migration scripts are correct and no historical data is lost.
- Finish content entry and proofreading.
Phase 2: Pre-Launch
- Deploy the website to a staging server and simulate a real environment for testing.
- Check domain, SSL certificate, email, and other configurations.
- Conduct stress tests to evaluate server capacity.
Phase 3: Launch Day
- Final confirmation of all site content, links, and contact information.
- Check robots.txt to ensure search engines can crawl (if indexing is desired, do not block).
- Submit the website to Baidu Search Resource Platform and generate a sitemap.
- Back up pre-launch data.
4. Practical Tips for Creating the Checklist
Use a table format with columns for check item, responsible person, completion status, and notes. For example:
| Check Item | Responsible Person | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| All homepage links work | Zhang San | ✓ | None |
| Company info updated on About Us page | Li Si | ✓ | Verified with business license |
| SSL certificate deployed | Wang Wu | ✓ | Valid for 1 year |
The checklist should be managed by the project lead, with sign-offs after each review. For large websites, team collaboration may be needed; consider using project management tools for tracking.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many teams overlook mobile responsiveness, compatibility with older browsers, and accessibility. Additionally, avoid making major data changes immediately after launch; observe for 1-2 days before iterating. Regularly update the checklist based on new requirements.
Finally, retain records of each launch for future reference. If the website undergoes redesign, historical checklists can guide adjustments.
A well-prepared pre-launch checklist makes website deployment smoother and reduces the need for urgent fixes. We hope this article helps you.
