Guides

Having a website built: the process, the timeline and what drives the effort

Illustration: timeline with four project phases up to launch
Short answer

A website for an SME is built in four steps: kickoff, design, build and launch. A landing page typically takes 2 to 3 weeks, a company website with 5 to 10 pages 4 to 6 weeks. The effort depends mainly on the number of pages and languages, the copy and the features.

What are the steps of a website project?

StepWhat happensTypical duration
KickoffGoals, audience, content, sitemap and schedule1 week
DesignHome page and one subpage in the final design, feedback rounds1 to 2 weeks
BuildAll pages, copy, forms, SEO basics, tracking1 to 3 weeks
LaunchDomain, redirects, Search Console, traininga few days

What determines the effort?

Five points make the biggest difference:

  • Number of pages and languages. Each language almost doubles the effort for copy and maintenance.
  • Copy. If the agency writes the copy, it takes more time, but it usually leads to better rankings.
  • Design. An adapted template is faster than a custom design.
  • Features. Forms are simple; bookings, a store or interfaces to other programs need more work.
  • Photos. Professional images need a photo shoot, but they make a stronger impression than stock photos.

That is why we quote every project individually: after the first call you receive a quote that sets out exactly these points for your project.

What running costs are there?

  • Domain, for example a .ch address, yearly
  • Hosting or a website builder, monthly
  • Maintenance and changes, depending on the agreement
  • For stores: Shopify subscription and payment provider fees

What should I prepare before the first call?

  • The goal of the website in one sentence, for example "more quote requests for bathroom renovations"
  • Your most important services, each of which should get its own page
  • Two or three websites you like, and why
  • Existing material: logo, copy, photos, logins for the old website and domain

Is a DIY website builder worth it?

For a club or a hobby project, yes. For an SME that wants enquiries through its website, usually not. The difference is rarely in the look, but in structure, copy and SEO: a website with one page per service is found for many more search terms than a single page that explains everything at once.

Work with us

In 30 minutes you will know what your project needs.

In a free first call we clarify goal, scope and next steps. Afterwards you receive a tailored quote. We usually reply within 12 hours.

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