A website brief is a description of what the site needs to do for your business. You do not need to choose every layout or plugin before speaking to a designer, but you should know who the site serves and what a successful visit looks like.
For a local service business, that might be a qualified enquiry. For a retailer, it could be finding the right product and completing a purchase. A clear goal helps decide what deserves space on the page.
Describe your customers and services
List your main services in the language customers use. Explain what is included, what makes one service different from another and where you work. A business serving Louth and Grimsby should describe its actual coverage rather than adding a long list of towns with no useful context.
Gather the questions customers ask before buying. These often reveal the information a page needs: suitability, process, timings, what happens after an enquiry and which details you need before confirming a price.
Map the important journeys
Write down three things a visitor should be able to do. For example: understand a service, view relevant work and send an enquiry. For an online shop, include product selection, delivery information and the checkout journey.
Separate essential launch features from later improvements. Booking tools, account areas, payments and integrations need more definition than a general request for a modern website. Explain the outcome you need and which systems already exist.
Gather content and access
Collect approved logos, photographs, service information and genuine testimonials you have permission to use. Identify gaps early. Original photographs of your people, work and products can make the website more specific to your business.
Make a list of the domain, hosting, email and other services involved. Agree how access will be provided securely and who will own each account. A redesign should include a plan for existing useful pages and links, rather than treating the old site as disposable.
Think beyond launch day
Decide who will update news, services, products and portfolio items. Ask for a manageable editing structure and a handover that reflects those tasks. Clarify maintenance, backups and ongoing support separately from the initial build.
Plan how enquiries will reach the right person and how success will be reviewed. The website should support a real business process, including what happens after someone presses Send.
Start with a focused conversation
Send your current website, a summary of your services, the main features you need and any deadline. Share design references with a short explanation of what appeals to you. A useful brief leaves room for design judgement while making the requirements clear.
I build WordPress websites from Louth for businesses across Lincolnshire. The scope and price are agreed around your content, functionality and support needs.
Explore website design services or send your brief to Cez Jones.
