**Website Checklist (2026): The “Digital Foundation” Quick Audit (Copy/Paste)**
Use this checklist to spot the biggest leaks in SEO, speed, UX, and conversions—fast.
**1) Strategy & Structure**
- Clear primary goal per page (lead, sale, booking, subscribe)
- Simple navigation (max ~6–7 main items)
- Logical URL structure (no random slugs)
- One primary CTA per page section
**2) Mobile UX (Non‑negotiable)**
- Pass the “thumb test” (buttons easy to tap)
- No horizontal scrolling
- Text readable without zoom
- Sticky CTA (optional) doesn’t block content
**3) Speed & Core Web Vitals**
- Images compressed + correct dimensions
- Avoid heavy animations/video backgrounds
- Limit third‑party scripts (chat, trackers, embeds)
- Test key pages in PageSpeed Insights
**4) On‑Page SEO Basics**
- One H1 per page + clean heading hierarchy (H2/H3)
- Unique title tag + meta description per page
- Internal links to key pages (services, contact, pillar content)
- Image alt text for meaningful images
- Schema where relevant (LocalBusiness, Article, FAQ)
**5) Trust & Credibility**
- Clear About page + real photos (if possible)
- Testimonials/case studies with specifics
- Contact info visible (email/phone/location if applicable)
- Privacy policy + cookie banner (where required)
**6) Conversion Essentials**
- Above‑the‑fold: who you help + outcome + CTA
- Forms: minimal fields + clear confirmation message
- Lead magnet or “free consult” offer (optional)
- Thank‑you page + tracking for conversions
**7) Content & Messaging**
- Service pages answer: who/what/how much/next step
- FAQs added to reduce objections
- Blog/pillar content supports your main services
- No outdated dates, broken pages, or placeholder text
**8) Technical Hygiene**
- SSL enabled (https)
- 404 page exists + broken links fixed
- Redirects set for old URLs (if migrated)
- Sitemap + robots.txt present (verify)
**9) Analytics & Tracking**
- GA4 + Search Console connected
- Key events tracked (form submit, purchase, booking)
- UTM naming standard for campaigns
- Monthly reporting habit (traffic, leads, top pages)
**10) Security & Maintenance**
- Admin access limited to necessary collaborators
- Regular app/script review
- Backup/export critical assets (brand files, copy, media)
**Want feedback?** Drop your homepage URL + your #1 goal (leads/sales/bookings) and I’ll point out the top 3 fixes.