How long does it take to create a homepage?

Key takeaways

How long to create a homepage depends on content more than design. As a Global Bridge Labs (GBL) rule of thumb, allow 2 to 4 weeks on a template and 4 to 8 weeks with custom design, if words and photos arrive on time. Most homepages run late because decisions and content do, not the build.

• 2 to 4 weeks is typical for a template homepage.
• 4 to 8 weeks is typical with custom design.
• Late content is the most common cause of delay.
• Fewer approvers usually means a faster project.

How long does a new homepage take from start to finish?

A new homepage typically takes 2 to 8 weeks from brief to launch, depending on whether you use a template or custom design. Those are GBL working estimates for a single page on an existing site. A full website takes longer, because navigation, inner pages and content all need work too.

• How to create a high-converting homepage for an SME
• How long does it take to build a business website?

Where does the time go?

On a typical template project, the first week goes on planning and research, the second on writing, the third on build and the last few days on testing. Custom design adds time for wireframes, visual rounds and development. Waiting for feedback often takes longer than any of the work.

• Brief and buyer research: 2 to 5 working days.
• Copy draft and revisions: 3 to 7 working days.
• Wireframe and design: 2 to 15 working days.
• Build and speed checks: 3 to 10 working days.
• Testing and launch: 2 to 3 working days.

• The homepage blueprint: six stages from blank page to live

What usually causes delays?

The usual causes are late copy, missing photos, new stakeholders appearing at the design stage and a changing brief. Each one is a people problem rather than a technical one. Setting review dates up front, and having one decision-maker, removes most of them before they can cost you weeks.

• Gather your homepage content before design starts
• Get a homepage signed off without a committee

Can you create a homepage in a week?

Yes, if you already know your buyers, have proof and photos, and accept a template. A focused week can produce a sound first version. Speed suits a new business that needs a presence now, but it does not suit a page that must explain a complicated or regulated service.

• The minimum viable homepage: what to ship first
• Launch the homepage first, then the rest of the site

When is it worth taking longer?

Take longer when the homepage carries a high-value decision, when you need a photo shoot, or when the page must pass compliance review. Also allow more time near a seasonal peak, because launching in a busy period risks breaking your enquiry route when it matters most.

• When to launch a new homepage: pick the quiet week
• A homepage photo shot list for a half-day shoot

What does this look like in practice?

A pattern we see: a homepage project estimated at four weeks takes ten, with almost all of the extra time spent waiting for a director to review copy between other work. Booking two review slots in the diary at the start usually does more for the timeline than any change of supplier.

• See client work
• Website Design & Development for UK businesses

Homepage timeline checklist

• Set a launch date, then work backwards.
• Book review slots in advance.
• Name one person to approve each stage.
• Confirm when copy and photos will arrive.
• Allow 2 to 3 days for testing.
• Avoid launching in your busiest weeks.

• Homepage wireframe: plan the page before the design
• How much to budget for a new homepage in the UK

Next step

Book the review dates before you book the designer. A project with fixed decision dates tends to finish on time, whichever supplier you use.