Project Name:

Date:

 

			Yes	No
	When you have settled on a niche for your site, the next step is setting up the niche site. There are myriad tools in the market that help with setting up the site for beginners and experts alike. For instance, plugins and site builders help increase the flexibility and functionality of your site and as such, it is important to incorporate them when developing your site. The main elements to consider when setting up your site include the domain, hosting provider, the themes/plugins to be added to your site, as well as the content management system. This checklist provides a step-by-step guide for setting up your niche website.
	Step 1 – The Domain
1	Ensure your domain includes your niche (tells people about your website).
2	Check that the domain name is short and memorable.
3	Ensure the domain name is easy to spell.
4	Select a .com that is brandable.
5	Check that your domain name is strong.
	Step 2 – Hosting Provider
6	Check that the hosting provider is reputable and reliable.
7	Check the flexibility of your hosting provider.
8	Examine the cost of your hosting provider.
9	Check the server’s reliability and up-time.
10	Examine the support and upgrade options.
11	Check the backup options and email hosting.
	Step 3 – Content Management System (CMS)
12	Ensure your CMS supports omni-channels.
13	Avoid over reliance on the developer.
14	Check that the CMS is scalable.
15	Test and get proof of concept first.
16	Check availability of built-in SEO tools.
	Step 4 – Themes and Plugins
17	Check that your selected theme is easy to use.
18	Select an attractive theme.
19	Ensure your theme is professional looking.
20	Install plugins to optimise your SEO (such as Yoast SEO).
	Notes:
	• Use tools such as NameMesh.com, Domain Name Brain and Panabee.com to select appropriate domain names. • Webhosting options include Bluehost.com, HostGator, Hostinger, DreamHost, SiteGround. • Sites such as Thrive Themes, Astra Theme, and GeneratePress Premium offer different themes.