Website Testing Checklist: Ensure a Smooth Launch
Introduction
Launching a new website is an exciting milestone, but ensuring it's ready for public access requires thorough testing. This comprehensive checklist helps identify potential issues—across functionality, performance, security, and more—to guarantee a smooth and successful launch.
1. Cross-Browser Compatibility Testing
- Major Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge.
- Mobile Browsers: Chrome Mobile, Safari Mobile.
- Older Versions: Test on prior browser releases still in use.
2. Responsive Design Testing
- Device Adaptation: Desktops, tablets, smartphones.
- Multiple Resolutions: Portrait & landscape orientations.
- Touch Compatibility: Buttons and interactive elements.
3. Functionality Testing
- Forms: Contact, registration, search submissions.
- Interactive Elements: Buttons, links, menus, CTAs.
- Integrations: Payment gateways, social sharing, plugins.
4. UI & UX Testing
- Design Consistency: Fonts, colors, icons.
- Navigation Flow: Intuitive user journeys.
- Load Speed: Aim for sub-3-second page loads.
5. Content Review
- Proofreading: Spelling & grammar.
- SEO: Alt tags, meta descriptions, headings.
- Links: Verify all internal links.
6. Security Testing
- SSL Certificate: HTTPS across the site.
- Vulnerability Scan: SQL injection, XSS tests.
- Password Policies: Strength checks for all logins.
7. Performance & Speed Testing
- Load Time: Under 3 seconds target.
- Stress Tests: Simulate high traffic loads.
- Image Optimization: Compress without quality loss.
8. Accessibility Testing
- WCAG Compliance: Color contrast, alt text.
- Screen Readers: Verify ARIA roles & labels.
- Keyboard Navigation: Full functionality via keyboard.
9. Analytics & Tracking
- Install Tags: Google Analytics, Search Console.
- Goal Tracking: Forms, downloads, e-commerce events.
10. Backup & Disaster Recovery
- Automated Backups: Regular, off-site storage.
- Recovery Drill: Verify restore process works.
11. Compliance Testing
- GDPR/CCPA: Cookie banners, data handling.
- Legal Pages: Accessible privacy policy & T&Cs.
12. Final Launch Preparations
- Clean Slate: Remove placeholder content & test data.
- Staging Review: Last walkthrough on staging server.
- Stakeholder Notification: Confirm launch time with all teams.