Are you building a new website or upgrading your online presence? This actionable checklist is built for small business owners who want to make smart, confident choices—whether you’re going DIY, hiring a pro, or exploring both. Use this guide to compare platforms, learn essential SEO steps, and match your goals with the right website and marketing solutions.
Why Planning Matters
A clear website and SEO plan helps you avoid costly mistakes, boost your visibility, and set your business up for measurable growth. This guide will walk you through every key decision point.
1 . Define Your Website Goals
- What’s the main purpose? (Leads, e-commerce, info, booking)
- Who is your target audience?
- Must-have features? (Contact form, blog, shop, booking)
- Needed integrations? (Email, CRM, scheduling)
- Timeline and budget?
2 . Compare Website Platforms
Popular Options: – WordPress: Flexible, scalable, great for blogs/services – Shopify: E-commerce focused, user-friendly – Wix/Squarespace: DIY, easy templates, less customization – Custom Build: Fully tailored, higher cost/complexity
Action Steps: – List your must-have features – Research 2-3 platforms – Compare ease of use, cost, scalability, support – Consider future needs (adding products, booking, etc.)
3 . DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
- DIY: Lower cost, more control, steeper learning curve
- Hiring: Saves time, brings expertise, higher investment
- Hybrid: DIY basics, hire for complex tasks (SEO, design)
Action Steps: – Assess your tech/design comfort – Estimate your available time – Get quotes and portfolios from pros – Decide what to handle yourself vs. outsource
4 . SEO Essentials for Success
- Keyword research: What are people searching for?
- On-page SEO: Titles, meta descriptions, headers, images
- Technical SEO: Mobile-friendly, fast load, SSL
- Local SEO: Google Business Profile, directories, reviews
- Content: Blog, FAQs, service pages with CTAs
Action Steps: – List 5-10 target keywords – Set up Google Analytics & Search Console – Optimize homepage and key pages – Claim/optimize your Google Business Profile – Create a content plan
5 . Digital Marketing Strategy Basics
- Social media: Which channels fit your audience?
- Email marketing: How will you capture leads?
- Paid ads: Google, Facebook, LinkedIn
- Reporting: Track what matters (traffic, leads, conversions)
Action Steps: – Choose 1-2 social channels – Set up an email signup form – Plan your first 3 months of content/campaigns – Define 2-3 key metrics to track
Solution Guide: Match Your Needs to the Right Service
| Your Need/Goal | Best Solution | Profit Path SEO Package/Service |
|---|---|---|
| Simple online presence | DIY (Wix/Squarespace) or One Page | One Page Website ($600) |
| Lead generation | WordPress Lead Gen Site | Lead Generation Website ($2,700) |
| Sell products online | Shopify or WooCommerce | Shopify E-commerce ($3,700+) |
| Local search ranking | Local SEO, Google Business Profile | SEO Foundation ($800/mo), GMB Setup |
| Ongoing support | Maintenance Plan | Maintenance ($95–$295/mo) |
| Build brand awareness | Social Media Management | Social Media Packages ($500–$1,495/mo) |
| Email marketing | Email Automation | Email Marketing ($300–$1,000/mo) |
Not sure what you need?
Ready to Take the Next Step?
- Review your goals, budget, and timeline
- Choose your platform
- Decide on DIY, pro, or hybrid
- Map out next steps (who does what, by when)
Want expert help or a free consult? – Call (608) 215-8519 – Visit profitpathseo.com – Or book a consult—no pressure, just helpful advice
