6 simple steps to make your next website project smooth, stress-free, and actually successful

So, you’ve decided it’s finally time to get that new website done — or maybe you’re revamping the one that’s been hanging around since 2016. Either way, well done! A website that works is one of the most valuable tools you can invest in for your business.

But here’s the thing: the website build process can quickly derail if you’re not quite ready to start. Whether you’re working with a web designer, doing it yourself, or somewhere in between, having a few things sorted in advance will save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches.

Below are six super practical (and not too scary) things to line up before you dive in.

1. Know What Your Website Is Meant to Do

Yes, you want a good-looking website — but what do you need it to do?

• Are you trying to get more enquiries?

• Sell products online?

• Build trust with potential clients?

• Take bookings?

• Promote your services?

When you’re clear on the primary goal, everything else — the layout, the content, the structure — becomes much easier to plan.

👉 Hot tip: Ask yourself, “What action do I want visitors to take when they land on my homepage?” That’s your purpose.

2. Make a Simple Page List

Before design begins, it’s helpful to know what pages your site needs. You don’t need a perfect sitemap, just a rough idea like:

• Home

• About

• Services or Products

• Contact

• Blog or News (optional)

This helps shape the build and gives your developer (or yourself!) a basic framework to work with.

If you’re feeling stuck, think about the questions your ideal client asks and make sure there’s a page that answers each one.

3. Start Writing Your Content (Even If It’s Messy)

This is the part that slows people down the most — and I get it. Writing about yourself and your work is hard!

But even rough drafts are gold. Your homepage, about page, and services pages are the most important — start there.

You don’t need to sound fancy. Just write like you talk. You know your business better than anyone, and a good web person can help edit and shape it from there.

Pro tip: Write it in chunks. One service at a time. One paragraph at a time. It adds up.

“You don’t need a full marketing team to plan your website – just a clear goal, some rough content, and the confidence to get started.”

4. Gather Your Best Images and Logos

Strong visuals make a massive difference, especially on your homepage and service pages.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• High-quality images of you, your work, or your products

• A good version of your logo (PNG or SVG is best)

• Any brand assets you already have (fonts, icons, textures, etc.)

Don’t have great photos? That’s okay. Stock images can work too — especially when chosen carefully to match your tone and audience.

And if your logo is looking a bit tired… this could be the perfect time for a refresh.

5. Track Down Your Tech Details

If you’re revamping an existing website, make sure you can log into the following:

• Your domain name provider (e.g. GoDaddy, VentraIP)

• Your hosting provider (e.g. SiteGround, Hostinger)

• Your current website backend (e.g. WordPress, Wix, Squarespace)

Missing these logins can delay your project (or derail it altogether). If you’re starting from scratch, have a quick chat with your web designer about the best setup for your needs and make sure you know where everything is stored.

Bonus tip: Create a shared folder for all your logins, assets, and notes so everything is in one place.

6. Define Your Style and Voice

Your website should feel like you – visually and verbally.

Start by asking:

• What colours, fonts, or styles do I love (or hate)?

• What tone do I want? Calm and trustworthy? Playful and bold?

• Are there any websites I really like (and why)?

Even if you don’t have a brand guide, a few sample websites, Pinterest pins, or colour palettes can help steer the design in the right direction.

In Summary

You don’t need everything perfect before you start a website build — but getting a few key things in place can make all the difference.

✅ Be clear on what your website needs to do
✅ Know what pages you’ll need
✅ Draft some content (no matter how rough!)
✅ Gather strong visuals
✅ Track down your logins
✅ Define your style and tone

Trust me — future you (and your web person) will thank you.

Need help with your next website project?

I build simple, good-looking websites for small businesses — and I help make the whole process less overwhelming.
Get in touch or check out Website Design Services.