SiteFixPlan field guide
Website audit checklist before a redesign
Preserve what works, find what blocks users, and give the redesign a measurable brief.
Use the homepage checklistDo not redesign blind
A redesign can erase pages, links, content, and conversion paths that already create value. Capture current analytics, top landing pages, organic queries, backlinks, forms, integrations, and accessibility issues before layouts change.
Build the baseline
Record performance and conversion data for priority templates. Inventory URLs and map redirects. Interview staff who handle leads and customers because they know where the current site creates confusion.
- Export the current sitemap and high-traffic URLs.
- Benchmark Core Web Vitals and key conversion events.
- Document forms, tracking, CRM, payment, and email integrations.
- Identify content to keep, consolidate, rewrite, or retire.
- Create redirect and validation plans before launch.
Define acceptance criteria
Translate audit evidence into testable redesign requirements: keyboard access, contrast, performance budgets, required metadata, form behavior, tracking events, and content ownership. Retest these before and after launch.
Common questions
Should old pages always redirect?
Map valuable or replaced pages to the closest relevant destination. Avoid sending every retired URL to the homepage.
When should analytics be planned?
Before design and development, so conversion events and consent requirements are included in the implementation.