This is the boring list that saves you when something breaks at 11pm.
Best for
- Before every production deploy
- After AI did a big refactor
- Handoff to non-tech owner
Avoid if
- Throwaway prototype only on localhost
● TOOLS
Related stack
● Build phases
Launch checklist 2026
Mobile & speed
Open site on phone: readable text, tappable buttons, form works. Run PageSpeed once — fix only red flags.
Done when: You completed a real form submit on mobile
SEO & structure
One H1 per page, unique titles, HTTPS green lock, robots.txt allows index, sitemap submitted.
Done when: View-source on home: 1× H1, HTTPS, title mentions your business name
Secrets & backups
API keys in env vars only — never in git. Export repo zip monthly. Document where domain DNS lives.
Done when: grep for API_KEY in repo returns nothing; backup date in README or calendar
Human review after AI
Read every customer-facing paragraph aloud. If it fits any business — rewrite. Small commits, not full rewrite.
Done when: Hero text is unique; you reviewed git diff before last deploy
● GUIDES
Related guides
Risks
- Skipping checklist after 'small' AI change
- No backup before DNS change
- Publishing with placeholder phone