Every website migration has numerous tasks and sub-tasks to get from development kickoff to new website launch. Anything related to 301 redirects can make a team feel like they're starting from scratch. We hope that even if you're undertaking your 100th migration the process we share today let's you save time, stay on schedule, and meet the client's budget.
These six tasks should always be a part of your redirect work:
Gathering all essential URLs from the current site
Defining the new URL taxonomy
Compiling all new URLs on the platform in development
One-to-one mapping of old URLs to the new URL taxonomy
Importing the redirects to your web server
Testing, pre-launch and post-launch
Gathering All Essential URLs from the Current Site
The first step in the redirect process is to compile a comprehensive list of all the important URLs from the existing website. This includes not only the main pages but also any landing pages, blog posts, or other significant content that has been indexed by search engines or linked to from external sources. Tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and Screaming Frog can help you identify and extract these URLs efficiently.
Defining the New URL Taxonomy
Once you have a complete list of the current site's URLs, it's time to establish the new website's URL structure. This involves creating a logical hierarchy and naming convention for the pages on the new site. The goal is to create a clear, user-friendly, and SEO-friendly URL taxonomy that reflects the content and organization of the new website. Collaborate with the client and the development team to ensure that the new URL structure aligns with their goals and requirements.
Compiling All New URLs on the Platform in Development
With the new URL taxonomy defined, the next step is to generate a list of all the new URLs that will exist on the developed platform. This list should include every page that will be present on the new website with a valid 200 server code, along with its corresponding URL. Having a complete list of new URLs is essential for the next step in the redirect process.
One-to-One Mapping of Old URLs to the New URL Taxonomy
Now that you have both the list of old URLs and the list of new URLs, it's time to create a one-to-one mapping between them. This involves matching each old URL to its corresponding new URL on the developed platform. This step is crucial to ensure that users and search engines are directed to the correct pages on the new website. WISLR's 301 redirect algorithm and services can significantly streamline this process, saving time and effort.
Importing the Redirects to Your Web Server
After creating the one-to-one mapping, the next step is to implement the redirects on your web server. This typically involves creating a .htaccess file (for Apache servers) or configuring URL rewrite rules in the server configuration files. The exact process may vary depending on your server setup and the content management system (CMS) you are using.
Testing, Pre-Launch and Post-Launch
The final step in the redirect process is thorough testing, both before and after the new website launch. Prior to launch, test each redirect individually to ensure that they are working as intended and directing users to the correct pages on the new site. Screaming Frog can automate this testing process. After the launch, monitor the website's performance closely, checking for any broken links or redirect loops. Use Google Search Console and analytics tools to identify any issues and make necessary adjustments promptly.
By following these six essential steps and leveraging WISLR's expertise and tools, you can streamline your 301 redirect process, save time, and ensure a smooth transition from the old website to the new one. Proper planning, execution, and testing of redirects are critical to maintaining search engine rankings, user experience, and the overall success of your website migration project.
Together these steps offer a better way to do 301 redirects. WISLR's goal is to always make one-to-one mapping as fast and easy as possible. It's historically the most time consuming effort that comes with this work, but doesn't have to be anymore.
If you're leading or managing a website migration, contact us to discuss working together with flat-rate 301 redirect consulting to keep your project on time and in budget.