Transferring a Webflow site to a client is an important step in the web development process. It allows you to hand over the project to your client, giving them full control and ownership of their website. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps to transfer a Webflow site to a client smoothly.
Step 1: Exporting Your Webflow Site
Before transferring your Webflow site, you need to export it as a ZIP file. This ensures that all the website files, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and images, are included in the transfer.
- Exporting: To export your site from Webflow, go to the Project Settings in your Webflow dashboard. Choose the ‘Export’ tab and click on ‘Export Site.’
Select the appropriate options based on your project requirements and click ‘Export. ‘
- Zipping: Once the export is complete, you’ll receive an email with a link to download your exported site. Download the ZIP file and extract its contents into a folder on your computer.
Step 2: Preparing Your Files for Transfer
To ensure a smooth transfer process, organize your exported files properly before sending them to your client. This will make it easier for them to understand and manage their website files.
- Main Folder: Create a main folder with an appropriate name for your client’s website. Place all the extracted files from the ZIP folder into this main folder.
- Subfolders: Depending on how you structured your project in Webflow, create subfolders within the main folder for assets like images or scripts.
Step 3: Sending the Files to Your Client
Once you have organized the files, it’s time to send them to your client. There are several ways to do this:
- Email: Compress the main folder into a ZIP file and attach it to an email. Send it to your client along with any additional instructions they may need.
- Cloud Storage: Upload the main folder or the ZIP file to a cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox. Share the folder or file with your client by providing them with a direct link.
- File Transfer Services: Utilize file transfer services like WeTransfer or Send Anywhere, which allow you to send large files easily over the internet.
Step 4: Helping Your Client Set Up the Website
After your client receives the website files, they will need assistance in setting up their website on a hosting platform. Provide them with clear instructions on how to proceed:
- Domain and Hosting: Instruct your client on how to purchase a domain name and hosting service if they haven’t already done so.
- CMS Setup: If your Webflow site uses Webflow CMS, guide your client through setting up their CMS collections and templates in their Webflow account.
- Uploading Files: Instruct them on how to upload the website files you provided into their hosting account using either FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or a web-based file manager.
- DNS Configuration: Help your client configure their domain’s DNS settings, including adding A records or CNAME records if necessary, so that their domain points to the correct hosting server.
Conclusion
Transferring a Webflow site to a client involves exporting the site, preparing the files for transfer, and guiding your client through the setup process. By following these steps and providing clear instructions, you can ensure a smooth and successful transfer of ownership. Now you can confidently hand over the reins to your client, allowing them to take control of their website and make updates as needed.