It happens more often than it should: a business owner wants to change their hours and realizes they do not know how to log in, who hosts their site or even who owns their domain. A good handoff makes sure that never happens to you.
Access to everything
You should have your own login, or at least clear access notes, for everything that runs your website and tools.
- Your domain name account
- Your website hosting
- The website itself, with an owner level login
- Any forms, booking or email tools connected to the site
- Any automations or assistants that were set up
Simple instructions
You should get plain steps for the everyday changes you are likely to make, like updating hours, adding a photo or editing a service. Instructions should be written for you, not for a developer.
Training on your real workflows
A short walkthrough using your actual site and tools is worth more than any manual. Ask for training on the tasks you will really do, with time for questions.
Notes on how it was built
A short record of what was built, which tools are connected and how they talk to each other helps anyone who works on your site later. Without it, the next person has to figure everything out from scratch.
Proof it was tested
Before handoff, everything should be tested the way your customers will use it: on phones, through every form and with every notification checked. Ask what was tested and what happens if something fails.
A list for later
Good projects end with ideas for what comes next. A short list of future improvements helps you plan and budget, without pressure to do it all now.
Where to start
If you already have a website, check whether you can log in to your domain, hosting and site today. If you cannot, sort that out first. Our handoff and support page explains what we hand over on every project.
Starting a new project?Tell us what you need. A real person will read it and follow up.
Start a projectQuick questions
Who should own my domain and hosting accounts?
Your business should. Even if someone else manages them, the accounts should be in your name or your business's name so you never lose access.
What if my old web designer will not give me access?
Start by asking in writing for the logins to your domain, hosting and website. If that does not work, your domain registrar and hosting company can often help verify you as the owner.
Do I need training if I will not edit the site myself?
It still helps. Knowing where things live and how they work means you can make informed decisions, even if someone else does the edits.