A website requirements document describes what you want before the agency starts working. It prevents misunderstandings, delays and surprise invoices. You do not need a thirty-page document. A few clear pages are enough for a small business. Here is a simple template to copy.
Why write a website requirements document?
First, it gives the same information to every agency. This way, you compare quotes on a common basis. Next, it sets what the price includes and what it does not. As a result, you limit last-minute requests that push the bill up. Moreover, it forces you to clarify your project before you spend money. Finally, it protects both sides in case of disagreement.
What should a requirements document contain?
Here are the seven essential sections.
- Your business: your activity, your city, your customers and your competitors.
- The goal of the site: receive calls, sell online or book appointments.
- The target audience: local customers, the diaspora in Europe or companies.
- Pages and features: home, services, contact, blog, store, MTN MoMo and Orange Money payment.
- The content: who provides the texts, the photos and the logo?
- The design: three sites you like, your colors and your logo.
- Budget and deadline: a price range, a launch date and the follow-up after going live.
For the content section, read our guide on preparing your website content before contacting an agency.
Which simple template should you use?
Copy these questions into a document and answer each one in two or three sentences.
- Who are you and what do you sell?
- Who should visit your site?
- What should a visitor do on your site?
- Which pages do you want?
- Which features do you need: form, payment, booking, WhatsApp button?
- Which sites do you like, and why?
- What budget and launch date do you have in mind?
To set your budget, see our price guide for a website in Cameroon. If you are redoing an existing site, also read when and why to do a redesign.
Which mistakes should you avoid in a requirements document?
First, do not stay vague. A “beautiful modern site” means nothing to a technical team. Give precise examples. Next, do not forget mobile: most of your visitors browse on a phone. Also, do not hide your budget. The agency cannot adapt its proposal without this information. In addition, do not try to do everything from the start. Begin with the essentials, then add features later. Finally, think about what comes next. A site needs maintenance after launch. To choose your provider, also compare a web agency and a freelancer. For the SEO basics to plan from the design stage, see Google’s SEO starter guide.
Frequently asked questions about the website requirements document
Is a requirements document mandatory?
No, but it saves time and money. Indeed, it reduces back-and-forth with the agency.
How long should it be?
Two to five pages are enough for a showcase site. On the other hand, an online store needs a little more detail.
Can you write it without technical knowledge?
Yes. Explain your needs in simple words. The agency then turns those needs into technical solutions.
In the end, a good website requirements document helps you launch a clear project. To get started, read our guide to creating a website in Cameroon. To talk it over with us, contact MboaGeek.
