You do not need to have every answer. But gathering a few key pieces helps create a clearer website, make better decisions and get more from conversations with the team building it.
1. The goal and the people
Write one sentence describing what you want your website to achieve. Then describe the people you want to reach and the questions they usually bring. “Get enquiries from shops that need to renovate their premises” is a more useful starting point than “have a modern website”. Prioritise the goal so the design can respond to it.
2. A clear explanation of your offer
Gather the services or products you want to show. For each one, note what problem it solves, who it is for and what it includes. You do not need perfect copy: an honest, specific explanation is enough to begin. Separate what you currently offer from future plans to avoid announcing something that is not yet available.
3. Identity and images you can use
Prepare a good-quality logo, colours and any brand guidelines you have. Select your own photographs or appropriately licensed assets. Finding an image online does not give permission to publish it. If you do not have visual material, mention it early so photography, illustration or original assets can be planned and their use agreed.
4. Practical content and legal details
Gather the contact details you want to publish, opening hours if relevant and common questions. You will also need to identify the website owner and define how form data and cookies are handled. These texts depend on your activity and configuration; an unreviewed template does not replace any advice your business may need.
5. Who makes decisions and maintains it
Decide who will review the design and who will approve publication. Define who will update content and how often. If you already have a domain, hosting or connected tools, prepare an inventory without sharing passwords by email. This information makes it possible to agree a realistic scope, proposal and way of working.
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