Project Setup Checklist

Project Setup Checklist (Before Starting)

1. Environment Setup
   • Create a staging environment (even on subdomain)
   • Install debugging tools like Query Monitor
   • Set up local development environment if possible
2. Security Measures
   • Implement basic security plugins (Wordfence or similar)
   • Change default admin username
   • Use strong passwords and limit login attempts
   • Set up SSL certificate
3. Performance Foundation
   • Install caching plugin (WP Rocket, WP Super Cache)
   • Configure image optimization (Smush, ShortPixel)
   • Set up a CDN if needed
4. Essential Plugins
   • SEO plugin (Yoast or Rank Math)
   • Backup solution (UpdraftPlus, BackWPup)
   • Form handler (Contact Form 7, WPForms)
   • Security plugin (already mentioned)
5. Block Editor Customization
   • Set up custom color palette to match brand
   • Define custom block patterns for common layouts
   • Create reusable blocks for frequently used elements

During Project Development

1. DRY Principles
   • Create reusable components/blocks
   • Use block patterns for consistent layouts
   • Utilize template parts for repeated elements
2. Documentation
   • Comment your code
   • Document custom functions and hooks
   • Create a style guide for consistency
3. Performance Optimization
   • Regularly check page speed
   • Optimize images before uploading
   • Minimize plugin usage
4. Regular Backups
   • Before major changes
   • After completing significant sections

Final Project Checklist

1. Quality Assurance
   • Cross-browser testing
   • Mobile responsiveness check
   • Accessibility audit (WCAG compliance)
   • Check for broken links
   • Test all forms and interactive elements
2. SEO Optimization
   • Verify meta titles and descriptions
   • Check heading structure
   • Optimize images with alt text
   • Ensure XML sitemap is generated
   • Add schema markup where appropriate
3. Performance Final Check
   • Run Google PageSpeed Insights
   • Optimize largest contentful paint
   • Minimize unused JavaScript and CSS
4. Security Audit
   • Update all plugins and themes
   • Remove unused plugins
   • Check user permissions
   • Implement security headers
5. Migration/Handover
   • Create comprehensive documentation
   • Prepare training materials if needed
   • Ensure backup system is working
   • Set up monitoring tools
6. Launch Preparation
   • Disable any “under construction” mode
   • Configure proper redirection if needed
   • Update robots.txt file
   • Connect Google Analytics/Search Console

By following these practices, you’ll build more maintainable WordPress sites that won’t break with future updates and will be easier to manage long-term.