What belongs in the pre-build inventory?
The inventory includes important URLs, content, downloads and integrations. Record pages with traffic and backlinks, and identify the owner of each account. The inventory provides the evidence for retain, merge or remove decisions.
What belongs in the URL map?
The URL map pairs replaced pages with the closest useful new destination. It also identifies URLs that remain unchanged. Avoid redirect chains and do not send unrelated pages to the homepage as a default.
What needs checking after the switch?
After the switch, check live redirects, canonical tags, forms and indexing instructions. Monitor failed requests and relevant search reporting. Keep a recovery plan so a critical operational issue has a defined response.
What should you record before making a decision?
Record the requirements and evidence relevant to this question before accepting a proposal. Distinguish the work needed at launch from ongoing responsibilities. A clear written scope gives both the business and the supplier an agreed basis for review.
- Audit content and important URLs
- Approve the destination map
- Test on mobile and desktop
- Confirm tracking and indexing settings
- Check the live migration
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