First, The Short Answer
Most new websites take 6 to 12 weeks from strategy to launch.
But the timeline can stretch depending on scope, content, and how prepared you are going in.
If you’re starting from scratch, expect closer to 10–12 weeks.
If you’re redesigning an existing site with a clear plan, it might be closer to 6–8.
Typical Website Project Timeline
Here’s what a standard process looks like for service-based businesses:
Week 1–2: Strategy + Planning
- Define your goals
Map your site structure
Clarify your offers, audience, and calls-to-action
Agree on timelines and who’s doing what
Week 3–4: Content and Copywriting
- Write or revise page content
Gather visuals (photos, brand assets, testimonials)
Create lead magnets or forms (if needed)
Week 5–7: Design and Development
Create mockups or design concepts
Build the site on your chosen platform
Add animations, forms, integrations, and mobile responsiveness
Week 8–9: Edits, Testing, SEO
Review and request changes
Check functionality and browser compatibility
Add page titles, metadata, and image alt tags
Set up redirects (if redesigning)
Week 10–12: Launch Prep and Go-Live
- Final testing
Connect the domain and tracking
Post-launch support and tutorials
What Can Delay a Website Launch?
Even with a clear plan, delays happen. These are the most common ones:
1. Waiting on Content
This is the #1 reason projects get stuck.
If you’re writing your own content or gathering photos, build in time for it, or delegate it early.
2. Decision Bottlenecks
If feedback is delayed or there’s no clear decision-maker, the timeline stretches fast.
Set clear approval checkpoints to avoid the back-and-forth spiral.
3. Scope Changes Mid-Project
Adding pages, integrations, or major features halfway through? Totally doable — but it pushes everything back.
4. Tech Surprises
Old hosting, broken plugins, lost login credentials — these slow down even simple redesigns.
Doing a tech audit at the start can save you weeks later.
How to Launch Faster (Without Rushing It)
Start with a strong strategy and sitemap
Use a proven process (not “winging it”)
Assign one person to own approvals
Finalize branding and offers before design starts
Partner with a team that handles content and dev in one place
Final Thought
A great website doesn’t happen overnight, but it shouldn’t take forever, either.
If you’ve got a clear goal and a team that leads the process, your site can launch on time and stress-free.
We’d be happy to map out a timeline that works with your business goals and internal schedule. Let’s talk