How to Start Building a Website

July 14, 2025

Learn how to create a successful website for your business. From planning and documentation to choosing a professional website builder, this guide covers it all.

The Explosive Growth of Building a Website

Website development is a multi-phase process that requires proper planning—from design and technical documentation to launch and promotion. Whether you’re looking to create a website for a small business, a personal brand, or a large enterprise, success begins with clear goals and the right documentation.

Especially for complex or business-critical projects, working with a professional website builder or an experienced website development company can make a significant difference. They help ensure every aspect of your site—from functionality to design—is well thought out and scalable.

Key Documents You Need Before Starting Website Development

Brief

The brief outlines the general idea and concept of the future website. It includes a short description, an overview of required modules and features (like a WordPress landing page or contact form), and often a timeline or pricing guide. Typically, this document is attached as an annex to the main contract.

PRD – Product Requirement Document

The PRD explains the business goals, vision, and challenges the website is meant to address. Whether you’re trying to create an online shop or a company website, this document outlines the expected outcomes, risks, competitive advantages, and strategic approaches.

TOR – Terms of Reference (Technical Specification)

This is the most detailed document. It outlines functional and non-functional requirements, system architecture, user types (visitor, user, admin), and the interaction between them. A company website builder or development team uses this as a foundation during each development sprint.

User Flow Diagram

This visual diagram maps the user’s journey on the site—from landing pages to checkout (if applicable). It’s particularly important when you’re trying to build a site that’s intuitive and supports conversions.

SOW – Statement of Work

This document focuses on execution phases, deliverables, costs, and deadlines. It’s particularly helpful when working with a remote website development company or managing a large project involving multiple stakeholders.

Where to Order a Website

If your website is more than a simple one-pager, be selective about who you hire. While freelancers or free WordPress builders may seem budget-friendly, they often lead to delays, technical debt, or low-quality outcomes.

Choosing a reputable website development company or professional website builder is an investment in reliability, speed, and long-term success. Follow these tips:

  • Search for 10–15 potential providers online using search engines (e.g., “user friendly website builder” or “company website builder”).
  • Check the company’s legal status and past project portfolio.
  • Evaluate their design standards, mobile responsiveness, and loading speed.
  • Beware of vague claims like “we can’t show our work due to confidentiality.”
  • Contact past clients for feedback.
  • Ask for a transparent pricing breakdown.
  • Review the contract and all appendices carefully before signing.

How to Work Effectively with Digidog

Once you’ve chosen your development partner, whether it’s Digidog or another website builder, collaboration is key:

  • Provide a clear TOR with expected functionality (e.g., WordPress landing pages, forms, blog sections, etc.).
  • Share design references and examples.
  • Trust your team, but remain involved—especially in the design phase.
  • Insist on mobile mockups and test on actual devices.
  • Test everything post-development—especially the CMS, forms, and performance.
  • Maintain professional communication; respectful dialogue always yields better results.

Final Thoughts

Starting a website isn’t just about design or code—it’s about transforming your vision into a working digital product. Whether you want to create a personal website, build a site for your company, or create an online shop, the success of your project relies on:

  • Thoughtful documentation
  • A clear development process
  • Choosing the right professional website builder
  • Strong collaboration

By investing the time upfront to plan and define your goals, you’ll get a user-friendly, scalable website that delivers real results.

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Erik Budanov

Founder & Sales Specialist