Ultimate Website Redesign Checklist: From Brand to Beta

The best way to predict the future is to create it. – Peter Drucker

Redesigning your website is an opportunity to enhance its functionality, improve user experience, and better communicate your mission to your audience. Your website should function as a dynamic tool to engage visitors, provide valuable information, and support your organizational goals.

Whether you’re in Culture & Education, Life Science & Technology, Health & Wellness, Nonprofits, Performing Arts, or Travel & Tourism, this checklist will guide you through a stress-free website redesign using our proven Brand, Build, and Beta phases. This checklist will guide you through every step of the process.

1. BRAND: Shape Your Identity

A successful website redesign starts with a clear understanding of your brand. This phase is about defining who you are, what you stand for, and how to connect with your audience. Here’s what to do:

Checklist for the Brand Phase:

• Conduct a Brand Discovery Session: Identify your mission, vision, and unique value proposition
• Define Your Audience Personas: Understand their needs, challenges, and what motivates them to engage
• Audit Your Current Website: What’s working? What’s outdated? Identify gaps in content, design, and functionality
• Craft Your Messaging: Develop clear, consistent, and persuasive messaging that reflects your brand’s voice
• Plan Visual Identity Updates: Refresh your color palette, fonts, and imagery to align with your mission

Pro Tip:

Your brand is the foundation for your website’s design and functionality. Skipping this phase is like building a house without a blueprint.

2. BUILD: Bring Your Vision to Life

Once you’ve defined your brand, it’s time to turn it into a functional, engaging website. The Build phase focuses on creating a strong foundation, structured framework, and polished final touches.

Checklist for the Build Phase:

• Foundation:
  • Choose secure hosting and ensure SSL is in place
  • Set up scalable infrastructure to support future growth
  • Prioritize site speed and mobile responsiveness
• Framework:
  • Develop a user-friendly navigation structure
  • Optimize page layouts for readability and flow
  • Integrate accessibility features to ensure inclusivity
• Furnishings:
  • Add interactive features like donation buttons, event calendars, or booking systems
  • Upload engaging visuals and high-quality content
  • Implement a CMS (Content Management System) for easy updates

Pro Tip:

A great website is not just about looking good—it’s about seamless functionality. Every element should serve a purpose.

3. BETA: Perfect and Launch

The Beta phase is all about ensuring your new website is ready for the world. This includes testing, tracking, and training.

Checklist for the Beta Phase:

• Testing:
  • Conduct usability tests to identify bugs or user friction
  • Test across multiple browsers and devices for compatibility
  • Check page load speeds and resolve slow-loading issues
• Tracking:
  • Set up Google Analytics and other tracking tools
  • Optimize on-page SEO, including meta tags, keywords, and alt text
  • Monitor user behavior to refine and improve
• Training:
  • Train your team on how to update the website through the CMS
  • Provide guidance on using analytics tools for performance tracking
  • Establish a plan for ongoing maintenance to keep the site secure and up-to-date

Pro Tip:

A website redesign doesn’t stop at launch. Regular tracking and maintenance ensure long-term success.

Work With Us to Redesign Your Website

By following the Brand, Build, and Beta phases, you can transform your website into a valuable resource that supports your audience and achieves your goals. Whether you’re in Culture & Education, Life Science & Technology, Health & Wellness, Nonprofits, Performing Arts, or Travel & Tourism, this approach ensures a thoughtful and effective redesign.

Take these steps to ensure your next website redesign is thoughtful, effective, and impactful.

Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it. – Henry David Thoreau