Typical Timelines
Here's what I've seen across dozens of projects:
These assume a single developer (me) handling design and development, with a client who's responsive with feedback.
What Makes Projects Take Longer
Unclear Requirements
The biggest time killer isn't coding - it's figuring out what to build. Projects that start with a clear scope and defined pages move fast. Projects where requirements shift weekly can stretch indefinitely.
Content Delays
I can build a beautiful site, but I can't write your about page for you. The most common bottleneck I see is waiting for client-provided content: copy, photos, team bios, case study details. Have your content ready (or budget for copywriting help) and your timeline shrinks dramatically.
Revision Cycles
Feedback is essential, but open-ended revision rounds add up. I build in structured review points - typically after wireframes, after design, and after development - where we align before moving forward.
Feature Creep
"Can we also add..." is a phrase that adds weeks. New features mid-project aren't bad, but they do affect the timeline. The more clearly we define the scope upfront, the more predictable the delivery date.
How to Keep Your Project on Track
The Bottom Line
Most small-to-medium websites take 3-6 weeks from kickoff to launch. The timeline depends less on the developer's speed and more on how prepared and responsive the client is. Come with clear goals and ready content, and we'll move fast.