A common question asked by entrepreneurs and small business owners is how much time it will take to build a professional and fully functioning website, and there is no simple answer to this important question. While this is one of the main factors that will determine the success of the business, it is important not to rush through the development or you might end up with a sub par website.

There are three factors that determine the amount of time it will take to get the website live.

1. How soon can the developer start? It is not uncommon for the high quality website developers to already be at work on another project, which means a short delay until they can get started on yours.

2. How long will it take until the website is ready to be reviewed?
Once a developer/designer is contacted and accepts the project a clear timeline is generally laid down for the client’s approval. In most cases the only reason a project is delayed in our company is we didn’t receive content from the client and we were unable to proceed.

3. How long until the website can be launched?
The amount of time it takes to launch the website actually depends on the client (see above). It is up to them to review the website, request any changes and finalize the posted content.

How soon can the developer start?
If the client’s initial request starts off listing a deadline chances are there will be fewer responses from website developers and designers. Some of the best qualified developers and designers are often booked weeks or even months in advance, and typically won’t respond to any request for their services if it includes a posted deadline. This is not the case at our company, we appreciate a clear structured road map with a clearly defined deadline.

Simply stating your needs in a clear and concise manner and letting developers submit their plans and the expected timeframe for the project allows you to choose from a larger number of service providers. This way you can make your choice based on the suggested design, and you also have the opportunity to compare cost and work quality between competing developers.

How long will it take until the website is ready to be reviewed?
While the amount of time it takes until a website is ready for review by the client will vary, a high quality developer will submit a precise timeline based on the size of the project. Generally a website will take seven to eight weeks, but it is not uncommon for large projects to take longer.

We usually divide the project into three stages to ensure every detail is covered. The first step is to work out a detailed plan that includes the overall structure of the site. This allows the developers to see how all of the features will work on the website, before starting on the design.
Once the content and features have been identified and structured we will start working on the design. We will ensure that the website looks great on a variety of devices. Once the designs are completed and the developer is satisfied with how each one looks, it is time to start building the website.
Using the document that describes the content structure and interactive features, along with the completed designs, we will start building a website that matches all of the plans. When the website is finished it will be sent to the client for review, and then any changes or additions can be discussed.
Even though it can take two months or longer simply to reach the review stage, it is well worth the wait it you want a website that you can be proud to own.

How long until the website can be launched?

The final stage is generally referred to as the “Modification Period” and the amount of time it takes will depend on the client. There is no set time limit for getting a website perfect, and we will continue to work until everything is finished to the client’s expectations.

There are some steps clients can take to ensure their website is launched with a minimal review period, and the most important one is to be prepared. This includes,

1. Clearing your schedule so you have plenty of time to review and check the website for bugs or inconsistencies with the design will significantly shorten the amount of time needed before it can be launched. Since we submitted a timeline at the start of the project, you know exactly when the website will be delivered so it should be relatively easy to make the necessary time for the review.

2. If there is any content that needs to be inserted, having it ready for us to add can significantly shorten the amount of time it will take to have the website ready to be launched.

Not having content ready for insertion is one of the main reasons a website launch is delayed, and we recommend hiring a professional copywriter if you need additional assistance. It is important to remember that the length of time between the review and launch will vary according to the client and size of the project, and sometimes it pays to take a little longer to ensure every aspect of the website meets and exceeds your high expectations.

Summary: How long will it take to build a website?
On average it will take 8 to 12 weeks to design, build, review and launch a website, but this is only an estimate and it will vary between different projects. It is possible to shorten the amount of time by ensuring the necessary content is ready when we are, and that you can review the website when it is sent back to you.

Contact us to get started on your project today.