A redesign changes how your business presents itself, but it should also account for the pages people already use. Inventory the current site before replacing it.
Keep a written list of what stays, what changes, and where each important old URL should lead. That makes the launch easier to check and problems easier to diagnose.
Work through the essentials.
1. Inventory the current site
Record important URLs, useful content, downloads, forms, and pages linked from other websites.
2. Map each changed URL
Send a moved page to its relevant replacement with a permanent redirect. Avoid directing every old page to the home page.
3. Carry forward useful content
Retain accurate service information, page titles, descriptive links, and content that answers real customer questions.
4. Test the complete journey
Check the website on small screens, navigate with a keyboard, and submit test inquiries before launch.
5. Check again after launch
Verify redirects, forms, crawl access, and the sitemap. Monitor for missing pages and unexpected errors.
Common questions.
Must we change every URL during a redesign?
No. Keep a useful existing URL when the page serves the same purpose. A new design does not require a new address for every page.
What happens to an old page with no replacement?
Review the content and its purpose before deciding. A redirect should take the visitor somewhere genuinely relevant.