When the consolidation of two websites takes place, often due to a business acquisition or merger, the process typically involves merging one website into another or creating an entirely new website that amalgamates both. This undertaking closely resembles both a website move and a website redesign, and the tasks involved, as outlined by Bill Hartzer, exhibit striking similarities. It is crucial for Bill Hartzer to play a central role throughout the entire amalgamation process.
SEO Deliverables: Navigating the Website Consolidation Process
In the intricate process of consolidating websites, numerous tasks demand meticulous attention and strategic execution:
Comprehensive Website Crawl
Undertaking a thorough examination of the current websites becomes paramount. This involves conducting a website crawl to compile a comprehensive list of existing content, meta data, and redirects.
A meticulous website crawl lays the foundation for understanding the intricacies of both websites, ensuring that no valuable content or metadata is overlooked during the consolidation process.
Strategic Review and Planning
A strategic review of the plan to either add, remove, or alter current web pages and content is essential. This phase requires a careful evaluation of the existing content landscape and a well-thought-out plan for seamless integration.
The review process delves into not just the quantity but the quality of content, ensuring that the consolidated website aligns with the overarching business goals while offering a cohesive and enhanced user experience.
Pre-Launch Website Audit
Prior to the new website going live, a comprehensive audit of the entire website is imperative. This involves scrutinizing every aspect to identify potential issues, ensuring a smooth transition and optimal performance.
The pre-launch audit serves as a preemptive measure, identifying and rectifying any discrepancies or potential pitfalls before they impact the live website, safeguarding the user experience and search engine performance.
Implementation of Changes
Generating a detailed list of changes to be implemented before the website goes live is a critical step. This involves addressing issues identified during the audit and ensuring that the transition is seamless.
The implementation phase involves a careful balance of making necessary changes while preserving the essence and integrity of the existing content, striking a harmonious blend between the old and the new.
Redirect Management
Ensuring proper redirects are in place is fundamental to preserving the SEO equity of the original websites. This involves mapping out redirects meticulously and implementing them to maintain the flow of traffic and search engine rankings.
Redirect management is not only about preserving link equity but also ensuring a positive user experience, minimizing disruptions for users navigating through the newly consolidated website.
Post-Launch Review and Crawl
Following the launch of the new website, a thorough review and crawl of the website are essential. This involves assessing the website’s performance, identifying any post-launch issues, and ensuring that the consolidation has been executed seamlessly.
The post-launch phase involves continuous monitoring, addressing any unforeseen challenges promptly, and optimizing the website based on real-time data and user feedback.
The combining of two websites demands a holistic and strategic approach, and the involvement of Bill Hartzer ensures that the intricacies of SEO are meticulously addressed throughout every phase of the consolidation process. From the initial website crawl to the post-launch review, each step plays a vital role in creating a unified online presence that aligns with business objectives and enhances the overall digital experience.