1. Test the site on a phone
Can customers read the content, use navigation, complete forms and tap important buttons without zooming or fighting the layout? Mobile usability is one of the first things to review.
2. Read the homepage as a new customer
Within a few seconds, can someone understand what the business does, who it serves and what to do next? If the homepage depends on vague slogans, a redesign may need to start with messaging rather than visual styling.
3. Review every service page
Important services deserve enough information to answer customer questions and give search engines context. A single paragraph listing every service can limit both usability and search visibility.
4. Check speed and technical health
Large images, excessive scripts, outdated plugins and poor hosting can slow a site down. A redesign is a good opportunity to remove unnecessary technical weight instead of carrying it into the new build.
5. Check forms and conversion paths
Submit every important form yourself. Verify the message arrives, confirmation is clear and customers are not asked for unnecessary information. Calls, quote requests and bookings should have obvious paths.
6. Review accessibility
Check keyboard navigation, headings, labels, contrast, alternative text and interactive controls. Accessibility should be part of the design process rather than a patch after launch.
7. Review SEO before changing URLs
A redesign can damage existing visibility when useful URLs disappear without redirects. Inventory important pages and search traffic before changing site structure, then map old URLs to appropriate new destinations.
8. Decide what should be editable
Identify content your team needs to update routinely. Choosing the right content-management approach is easier when that requirement is known before development begins.
9. Identify integrations
Document forms, analytics, CRM connections, booking systems, ecommerce, email tools and other integrations. A redesign should preserve required business functions.
10. Define success
Decide what improvement means: clearer messaging, more qualified inquiries, easier updates, better accessibility, stronger local search foundations or a combination of goals.
If several items on this checklist are problems, explore web design and redesign services, compare WordPress vs Wix, or discuss your existing site.