One of the most common reasons ecommerce projects run over time isn't the build itself — it's waiting for content and information that the client hasn't prepared yet. Getting this ready before the build starts makes everything faster and smoother.
What we ask every ecommerce client
What are you selling? — this sounds obvious, but the detail matters. Is it physical products, digital downloads, services, event tickets, or a combination? Each requires a slightly different setup.
How many products or instances do we need to set up? — whether it's 10 products or 200, knowing the scope upfront shapes how the shop is structured and how long the build will take.
Do you have images for each product? — product images are non-negotiable. They need to be clear, consistent, and ideally shot against a clean background. If images aren't ready, the shop can't launch. This is the most common bottleneck we see.
Are there any specific order process requirements? — does the checkout need to capture any specific information? Do you need gift messaging, delivery instructions, age verification? Are there multiple fulfilment methods?
Do products have options or variants? — if a product comes in different sizes, colours, or customisable options, these need to be mapped out in advance so the product setup reflects them accurately.
What you can leave until later
You don't need every product ready on day one. A shop can launch with a core range and be added to over time. SEO, blog content, and marketing integrations can all come after the initial build.
Getting the above sorted before starting means the build moves quickly and you're not paying for a developer to wait on content.
Read more about what to expect when commissioning a custom ecommerce website or get in touch to start planning your project.