The Website Launch Checklist I Use for Client Sites

Launching a website isn't just about hitting publish. Before sharing a site with the world, there are several checks that help make sure it looks good, functions properly, and is ready for long-term use.

This is the checklist I use after the design is complete to review the website before launch.

1. Test Every Link and Button

Before launch, click through every interactive element on the site. Navigation links, footer links, buttons, and calls to action should all lead somewhere useful and work as expected.

Broken links create unnecessary friction for visitors and can make a website feel unfinished.

2. Structure Your Headings for SEO

A clear heading structure helps both people and search engines understand the content of a page.

• Use one clear H1 for the main page topic.
• Use H2 headings for major supporting sections.
• Use normal paragraph text for body copy.

Consistent structure improves readability and makes the page easier to scan and interpret.

3. Optimize Images With Alt Text

Images should include useful alternative text when the image communicates meaningful information.

• Add descriptive alt text where appropriate.
• Use captions when they genuinely add useful context.

Good alt text supports accessibility for people using screen readers and helps describe the purpose of important images.

4. Set Up the SEO Basics

Each important page should have metadata that clearly describes what the page is about.

Meta Title

Keep the title clear and specific to the business, page topic, and location when location is relevant.

Meta Description

Summarize the purpose of the page in one or two concise sentences. Explain who the page is for and what the visitor can expect to find.

Relevant Keywords

Focus on phrases that genuinely match the business, services, location, and content. Avoid stuffing a page with repeated keywords just for search engines.

Use AI Carefully for Keyword Research

AI tools can be useful for brainstorming keyword ideas and identifying phrases related to the content already on a website.

Treat those suggestions as a starting point rather than a substitute for understanding the business, audience, and actual search intent.

Final Thoughts

A successful website launch isn't about achieving perfection. It's about being prepared.

Taking time to review functionality, structure, accessibility, and SEO basics before launch can prevent avoidable problems after the site goes live.