Starting a Web Project
WEB DESIGN

Starting a Web Project: What Information You Need from the Client Up Front

2 min read

Before a web project begins, it is crucial to gather all relevant information and materials from the client. This saves time, prevents misunderstandings, and ensures that the project can be implemented efficiently, professionally, and in compliance with legal requirements.

1. Domain & Hosting

  • Desired domain: To reserve the URL early and avoid name conflicts.
  • Already registered domain: Check whether it needs to be transferred or newly registered.
  • Existing web host: Information about server resources and CMS compatibility.
  • Hosting login credentials: For installing the CMS, e-commerce software, SSL, and backups.

2. Email & Communication

  • Desired email addresses: Setup of business emails (e.g., [email protected]).
  • Access to email server: For setting up or migrating existing accounts.

3. Content & Images

  • High-quality logo (.eps, .ai, .svg): For scalable use on the website and in print materials.
  • Corporate fonts: Consistent typography across all channels.
  • Photos of employees: For team pages or “About Us” sections.
  • Stock photos or your own images: To ensure a professional look.
  • Visuals from previous projects: For the portfolio or references.
  • Business hours: For contact pages and local SEO.
  • Topics, services, products: Basis for structure, navigation, and SEO.
  • Text: Provided by the client or created by web developers.

4. Social Media & Online Presence

  • Access to social media channels: For integration, feeds, or sharing features.
  • Login/Authorization: To enable social media widgets and customization.

5. Online Store / E-Commerce

  • Store functionality: Clarification of products, categories, payment methods, and shipping options.
  • Product information: Texts, images, prices, variants.
  • Legal information: Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, Legal Notice.

6. Website Features

  • CMS Preferences or Special Features: Blog, newsletter, members-only area, booking system, etc.
  • Integration of Existing Tools: Newsletter, CRM, analytics, tracking, payment providers.
  • Access for external services: Google Search Console, Analytics, Ads accounts.

7. Project Structure & Approvals

  • Contacts & Responsible Parties: Who approves design, content, and technical adjustments?
  • Approval processes: Feedback loops, deadlines, and iterative adjustments.
  • Prioritization of key pages: Homepage, Contact, and product pages for the initial launch phase.

8. Legal & Branding

  • Legally relevant documents: GDPR/DSG-compliant privacy policy, cookie banner, legal notice.
  • Corporate Identity / Corporate Design: Colors, logos, fonts, style guidelines.
  • Brand Guidelines: Consistent presentation across all media.

9. Technical Requirements

  • Server Requirements: PHP version, MySQL, SSL, security settings.
  • Backup Strategy: Regular website data backups.
  • Performance Check: Review of large images, videos, or scripts.

10. Miscellaneous

  • References or Inspiration Pages: For design preferences and style.
  • Target Audience & Personas: For UX design, tone of voice, and SEO strategy.
  • Special Requests: Animations, interactive elements, microsites, newsletters, SEO focus.

Conclusion

The more information and materials the client provides in advance, the more efficiently and professionally a web project can be implemented. At aurelix, I ensure that all data is collected in a structured manner to optimally align design, technology, and content.

Image: freepik.com

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