Do you want to learn how to deliver a WordPress website to a client? This article will guide you through the key steps involved in handing over a WordPress website to your client.
As a WordPress developer, designing and constructing the perfect website for your client is a complex task that requires the perfect blend of creativity, skill, and technology. However, the job isn’t done once the last pixel is in place. The next step is delivering the website to your client in a professional and effective manner.
How to Deliver a WordPress Website to a Client
1) Website Completion
Before you can deliver a website, it needs to be completed. This includes not just the design and development stages, but also testing, debugging, optimizing, and adding all the necessary content.
- Testing: Ensure that every feature of the website works as intended. This includes functionality, load times, and how the site appears and behaves on different browsers and devices.
- Debugging: Fix any issues you identify during the testing process.
- Optimizing: Make sure the site is as fast and efficient as possible. This includes compressing images, minifying CSS and JavaScript files, and using caching plugins.
- Adding Content: Ensure all the website content is in place, including texts, images, videos, etc.
2) User Training
Many clients are not familiar with WordPress, so you need to teach them how to use their new website. Create detailed, step-by-step guides for adding content, updating plugins, and modifying basic site settings. If possible, arrange a training session to walk them through these processes.
3. Create User Accounts
Depending on the agreement you have with your client, you may need to create user accounts for them. WordPress has different user roles such as Administrator, Editor, Author, Contributor, and Subscriber. Make sure you assign the correct role based on the tasks your client will perform.
4. Backup and Security
Before handing over the website, install a security plugin to protect the site from hackers and other online threats. There are plenty of options available, both free and premium.
Implement a backup solution too. A reliable backup is like an insurance policy for the website and can save a lot of time and stress if something goes wrong. You can choose from a variety of WordPress backup plugins.
5. SEO and Analytics
Implement an SEO plugin, like Yoast SEO or All in One SEO, to help your client’s website rank well in search engines. Additionally, set up Google Analytics to provide your client with data about their website’s visitors.
6. Handover Documentation
It’s a good idea to provide your client with a document summarizing all the important details of their website. This should include:
- The URL of the website
- Admin login details
- A list of installed plugins and their functions
- Details of the website hosting provider
- Instructions for basic website management
- Contact details for ongoing support (if you are offering this service)
7. Post-Delivery Support
Even with training and documentation, your client may still need some assistance after you’ve delivered the website. Be sure to set expectations about what kind of support you’ll provide (e.g., via email, phone, or chat), for how long, and what the charges (if any) will be.
Conclusion
Delivering a WordPress website to a client is not just about handing over the keys. It involves making sure the website is completed to a high standard, training the client, setting up user accounts, ensuring the website’s security and backup, implementing SEO and analytics, and offering post-delivery support. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and professional handover process.
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