Podcast Episode 61 – Website Planning: Create a Realistic DIY Timeline

In this episode, Chrissy Rey addresses the common challenge of setting realistic timelines for website creation. Whether you’re stuck in perfectionism or hoping for overnight results, this episode provides a practical framework for planning your website project. Learn about the five essential phases of website creation and get specific timeframes for each step of the process.

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Show Notes

Chrissy Rey tackles the challenge of creating realistic website timelines, addressing both extremes: those who think it will take years and those expecting immediate results. She breaks down the website creation process into five manageable phases, providing specific timeframes for each and sharing practical tips to avoid common delays. This episode offers a balanced approach to website planning that helps listeners create achievable schedules for their DIY website projects.

Key Phases and Timeframes

  • Phase 1: Planning
    • Duration: Up to 1 week
    • Activities: Defining website purpose, identifying target audience, setting goals
    • Common pitfall: Getting stuck in details
    • Tool recommendation: Website Success Blueprint
  • Phase 2: Content Creation
    • Duration: 1-3 weeks
    • Activities: Writing copy, gathering photos, creating graphics
    • Tips: Write conversationally, use placeholder images if needed
    • Common challenge: Perfectionism with content
  • Phase 3: Design and Branding
    • Duration: 1 week
    • Activities: Choosing colors, fonts, templates, creating logo
    • Key insight: Design can evolve over time
    • Recommendation: Focus on professional appearance over perfection
  • Phase 4: Building
    • Duration: 1 day to 3-4 weeks
    • Activities: Actual website construction
    • Tip: Set aside dedicated time blocks
    • Variable: Depends on learning curve and available time
  • Phase 5: Launch and Beyond
    • Duration: 2 days plus ongoing maintenance
    • Activities: Testing links, forms, mobile responsiveness
    • Includes: Post-launch updates and improvements
    • Ongoing: Regular maintenance and SEO

Tips for Staying on Track

  1. Set specific times for website work
  2. Get feedback only from your target audience or experts
  3. Remember, “done is better than perfect”
  4. Keep initial scope reasonable
  5. Get help when needed

Total DIY Timeline Estimates

  • Focused work: 4-5 weeks
  • Part-time work: 6-8 weeks
  • Complex sites: 3-4 months or longer

Resources Mentioned