Bringing a site in.
ESTABLISH FIRST
Where it is now What it is built on Whether they have access to the current host The domain's registrar and nameservers Whether email is involved
THAT LAST ONE
Frequently overlooked and the most disruptive to get wrong.
WHAT TO AGREE BEFORE STARTING
What is included What it will cost, if chargeable When it will happen What downtime to expect
WHAT TO RECORD BEFORE TOUCHING ANYTHING
All existing DNS records.
Every one. Before any change.
THE PROCESS
Copy files and database Recreate email accounts Configure the domain on the new account Test using a hosts file entry Change nameservers Run AutoSSL Verify everything
THE TESTING STEP
Test before switching DNS, not after.
WHAT TO CHECK AFTERWARDS
The site loads Forms work Email sends and receives Certificates are valid The search engine visibility setting
WHAT TO TELL THE CLIENT
Not to cancel the old hosting for a week.
