Crafting a New Website While Keeping the Current One Live
Re-designing websites is about crafting a new website while keeping the current one live, preserving SEO, structure, and user access seamlessly, but it can also raise concerns about downtime or losing valuable content. That’s why my approach focuses on crafting a new website while keeping the current one live. By working on a dedicated staging site and preserving the structure, blog posts, and SEO of your existing site, I ensure a seamless transition that keeps your business running smoothly throughout the process.
Step 1: Creating a Full Backup of the Current Website
Before I dive into any design work, the first step is to make a complete copy of the client’s existing website. This is essential to preserve everything from blog posts and SEO metadata to the structure and functionality of the site. I use professional backup tools to ensure nothing is missed, including media files, plugins, and database configurations.
This backup acts as my safety net. It allows me to refer back to the original website at any point in the re-design process. Plus, it provides peace of mind for my clients, knowing their hard work and search engine rankings are secure.
Step 2: Setting Up a Staging Site
To keep the current website live and fully functional during the re-design process, I work on a separate staging site. A staging site is essentially a private replica of the existing website that allows me to implement design changes, test new features, and refine the user experience without affecting the live site.
This approach is ideal because:
- No Downtime: Visitors and customers can continue to access the live site without interruptions.
- Testing Environment: I can experiment with designs and features freely without worrying about breaking anything on the live site.
- Collaborative Feedback: Clients can preview and provide feedback on the new design in a safe environment.
Step 3: Preserving SEO and Website Structure
SEO is a critical component of any website’s success, and losing rankings during a re-design can have a serious impact. That’s why I pay close attention to preserving SEO elements, such as:
- Blog posts and their URLs
- Metadata and image alt tags
- Internal links
- Page titles and headings
By maintaining the existing structure, I ensure that search engines and visitors can navigate the website seamlessly after the re-design is launched.
Step 4: Designing the New Website
On the staging site, I begin creating a design that reflects the client’s vision and goals. This includes updating the layout, improving navigation, and integrating modern design trends while keeping the brand identity intact.
Throughout the process, I collaborate with my clients to ensure the new design meets their expectations and aligns with their business objectives. Regular updates and previews keep them involved and informed.
Step 5: Seamless Launch
Once the new design is complete and thoroughly tested on the staging site, it’s time to go live. This step involves carefully migrating the new design to the client’s hosting platform while minimizing downtime. Since the original website remains intact until the very last moment, the transition is smooth and disruption-free.
The Result: A Fresh, Optimized Website
The result is a beautifully re-designed website that not only captures the client’s brand but also retains the SEO value and content they’ve built over time. This process ensures that businesses can continue to operate and grow without worrying about their online presence being compromised.
Why This Process Matters
By working on a staging site and preserving the existing website’s structure and content, I’m able to deliver a polished and professional result while ensuring my clients’ businesses remain visible and functional online. This approach prioritizes both the client’s goals and their audience’s experience, creating a win-win situation.
If you’re considering a website re-design and want to ensure a seamless transition, I’d love to help! Let’s work together to create a stunning website that supports your business goals while keeping your online presence uninterrupted.
Ready to get started?
Ready to take the next step towards a new website, then why not book a call or alternatively you can fill in my contact form here.
I look forward to chatting soon
Yvette
You can also check out some recent client websites here – Eddie Judd, Community Rise, Rachel Jane Photo and The Works Counsel
