Your Website’s Launched—Now What? TL Design Lab's Guide to Next Steps
Congratulations! Pop the cork on that champagne! Oh wait—maybe hold off for a bit. While launching your website is a huge achievement, it’s really just the beginning of your digital journey. Now that your site is live, here’s how to keep the momentum going.
Step 1: Test with Real-World Users
Think of your website launch as a test drive—feedback is key to ensure it’s meeting expectations. If your web designer is also a UX designer, like at TL Design Lab, testing has already been done at every step to optimize user experience. But if testing wasn’t built in, now’s the time to test with real users: friends, family, veterans of your industry and fresh eyes altogether. Sure, your tech-savvy cousin will breeze through checkout, but Aunt Esther’s experience will confirm if it’s truly intuitive for everyone. Gather insights on navigation, clarity, and overall feel; if it’s Aunt Esther-approved, you’re on the right track.
Step 2: Feedback vs. Criticism
When it comes to feedback, think of it as “constructive insights” rather than criticism. True feedback suggests solutions and encourages improvement; criticism simply points out what’s wrong. Listen to all comments but keep your focus on what aligns with your brand’s goals. Take in what’s helpful, and let the rest be background noise.
Step 3: Content is the Fuel for Engagement
Your website might look great, but it needs quality content to stay relevant and boost traffic. Commit to creating blog posts, social media updates, and SEO-optimized articles that resonate with your target audience. Consistently adding valuable, fresh content makes Google notice you and brings new eyes to your site. Think about your niche: What questions are your customers asking? Address them in your blog or FAQs. Remember, content isn’t just for marketing; it’s also an opportunity to establish your brand as a thought leader.
Step 4: Keep It Fresh—Because Your Business Evolves
Websites aren’t static! Swap out those stock images over time with real action shots of your products, services, or team in action. Update content as your business grows, whether that means adding new products, posting case studies, or sharing recent client testimonials. A website that evolves with your business builds trust and keeps visitors engaged.
Step 5: Budgeting for Marketing and Ads
Consider this: your site can only drive sales if people find it! Investing in a marketing strategy—whether through SEO, social media ads, or Google Ads—can increase visibility and drive quality traffic. Define your audience, budget, and goals for ad campaigns. For example, if you’re targeting local customers, location-specific ads could be a cost-effective way to reach them. Also, revisit your keywords regularly to ensure they’re relevant to what your audience is searching for.
Step 6: Connect and Communicate
Having a website is step one; engaging with your audience is step two. Be proactive about gathering emails through newsletter sign-ups or exclusive offers. Send regular updates to keep your audience in the loop about upcoming events, new products, or even just industry tips. Use these moments to reinforce your brand and remind people why they should keep coming back.
Step 7: Celebrate the Milestone (and Keep Going)
Launching a website is an accomplishment worth celebrating. You’ve given your business a digital home—a place where customers can connect with you 24/7. So go ahead and pop that champagne, but remember, this is the start of a journey. With regular updates, valuable content, and thoughtful engagement, your site will continue to be a vital tool in your business toolkit.
Congratulations, and keep pushing forward! Your website has the potential to grow and adapt with your brand—so stay active, stay relevant, and let your digital presence work as hard as you do.