A new website is a big project. Most people are overwhelmed with the entire process of designing a website. Even redesigning a website is a big task and in some cases it can be more work than simply starting from scratch. When starting in the process we often think about to-do items like:
- Comparing design firms, getting quotes, and choosing a designer
- Sharing design brainstorm sessions with the designer
- Providing background of our company for the designer
- Sharing things like logos, product images, and other items
- Giving our opinion on versions of the design
These are the items we often consider when we – project managers, business owners, and company representatives – take on a website design project. We consider this to the be the checklist of the work we will have to be involved with throughout the process. But there is something often overlooked in website design and it could be argued that it’s the most important aspect of an entire website: Content.
The Must-Have Website Content Checklist
Content is often one of the overlooked items with a website project. Content is just not as exciting as mock-ups with great colors, designs, and other details that are visual.
The truth is that each designer needs content even before they start designing.
The truth is that each designer needs content even before they start designing. Your designer needs direction from you about what your company stands for. You need to share a vision with your designer and also provide all the content necessary for the website. This will give the designer something to work with and it will make the entire design process much more efficient. I recommend working on your website content strategy before working with a designer. Here is a checklist you can use to create all the content you’ll need for your website. If you provide this to your designer they will be thrilled to have you as a client. And when your designer is happy they’ll be inspired to provide really amazing designs.
1. Company Mission and Vision
Most people start with the home page with any website project, but I think the most important thing you can start with is your company mission and vision statement. These will provide a great deal of insight for the designer. A vision is important for your customers, your employees, and business partners. It’s a clear way to express what your company does, what it stands for, and where it will be in the future. By providing mission and vision statements to your designer you’ll find that they are able to understand your business better. Remember, this person is not as in tune with your company. They need to learn as much as they can so they can effectively design something that fits your brand. With great vision, a designer can use elements of your brand throughout the design and it will result in a more effective website.
2. Home Page
The Home page is the page everyone focuses on with a redesign. This page is important. It’s a page where your potential customers will look for basic information about your company. You’ll want to consider what it is your company does for your customer. Focus on the value your provide. Focus on their needs. When writing content for your home page you need to focus on what it is your company does that makes people’s lives better. People are selfish. They need to understand how your company makes their life better or else they will leave your site. A designer usually loves it when you can provide a few short sentences about what it is your company provides that is most valuable. List things in priority order and they’ll use the content where appropriate on the home page.
3. About Page
The About page is probably the most important page on your site after the home page. People visiting a site are often curious about the people behind the business. For this page you’ll want to create content that describes your business and the people working there. If it’s appropriate, include bios for employees and even plan on providing photographs for the designer – professional photos if possible.
4. Services
I put this one behind the About page only because people really do care about the people they work with. Services is close, though, because your potential customers obviously want to know what it is you have to offer them. The content on this page is important. Take some time and really focus on the value you provide your customers.
Take some time and really focus on the value you provide your customers.
5. Blog Posts
If you plan on having a blog on your website – and I recommend you do – think about creating a few blog posts. Write 3-5 posts and have them ready for the designer. Designers love having the actual content that will be on the site and that includes blog content. It will help them experiment with different layouts and focus on the best ways for your target audience to consume the blog content.
6. Contact Page
The contact page is where your website visitors will go when they want to reach out to you. These folks are likely on the way to connecting with you about future sales or business deals. The contact page needs to have content that gives clear direction on how to contact you. Provide your address, phone number, and any other information your customers can use to connect with your company. Also consider any barriers your potential customers might have regarding contacting you. If you think it’s necessary, write something that makes visitors feel comfortable filling out the contact form. Sometimes people are leery about these forms because they’ve had bad experiences with spam. Trust is an important part for every area of your site. Evoke trust with all your site content.
7. Others to Consider
Here are a few other pages to consider when developing content for your website.
- 404 pages
- Testimonials
- Terms
- Privacy Policy
- Etc.
Each business will have unique pages and content. Go through a mapping session where you sit in front of a whiteboard and map out what your website structure will likely be. Think of all the pages you’ll need for your website. Consider the importance of each of these pages (designers love knowing the priority of content).
Think of all the pages you’ll need for your website. Consider the importance of each of these pages (designers love knowing the priority of content).
Finally, delegate the content creation and get started. Once your content checklist is complete you’ll be ready to contact a design firm and get started on that new website.
About the Author: Dayne Shuda
Dayne Shuda is a content strategist and blogger. He is the founder of Ghost Blog Writers. Website: http://www.dayneshuda.com Twitter: @DayneShuda
