The first step is to conduct or gather brief industry research. This allows us to know:
- who the major buyer segments are (your audiences)
- the various products and services that are being purchased within the category
- who the major competitors are
- any relevant trends (opportunities and threats)
Please get in touch with us if you’d like us to provide you with an up-to-date research report for your industry.
It may be helpful to also conduct a brief SWOT analysis within the context of the purpose of this project, which will produce a strategy that takes those elements into account, as well as the goals of the organisation which leads is to the next step.
Determine the goals of the website. What specifically do you want the website to achieve and how that will be measured over time as part of the broader marketing strategies. For example, generate leads, sales, to educate etc.
The next step is to gather branding information and assets for the business. Ideally, the brand will be able to provide an updated style guide that will provide all branding, style, look and feel guidance as well as the assets which must be used.
Since competitors have been identified, you may now conduct a review of how what their goals are and how they are accomplishing them. This may involve observing any innovative tools or resources that your potential customers may already have access to from your competitors. Conversely, you may be able to identify any gaps or problems buyers are experiencing which you can fulfil as part of your new build.
Optionally, from this point inwards, creative brainstorming may assist you in ways you can achieve your goals more effectively and efficiently.
Now the website, UX and content structure can be outlined and designed based on all of the above contextual information.
Get access to our 50+ task framework — a proven, step-by-step system for launching and growing a business the right way. Each guide is packed with strategic insight, technical how-to, and practical detail. New resources are released regularly as part of your subscription.
Voyager allows you to follow our full framework, track your progress, and collaborate with your team — completely free. No paywall, no catch. It’s part of our mission to help people do it right.
