SEO Considerations for Changing URLs on Development Site
Currently, we’re in the process of securing a ccTLD (e.g., .co.uk) for our new website. In the interim, my boss has proposed launching the site with a .com TLD first and then transitioning to the ccTLD once it’s available.
While I’m hesitant about this approach due to its resemblance to a website migration, if my boss is set on it, I recommend we execute all changes on the development site where the SEO impact is minimal.
The plan would be to develop the site using the .com TLD on the dev environment. Once the ccTLD is secured, we can simply switch the domain without needing to set up redirects, as the site won’t have accumulated any ranking signals yet.
Of course, this assumes the development site is password protected.
Is this a viable approach?
One response to “SEO impact on changing URLs in Dev Site?”
Your proposed approach is sound and has its merits, especially considering the SEO implications of switching domains. Here are a few points to consider in response to your post:
Development Environment: If the dev site is password-protected and not indexed by search engines, then the SEO impact is indeed minimal. Building the site on a .com TLD during development can give you the flexibility to design and test without worrying about SEO until the live site launches.
Domain Switch: Once you secure the .co.uk domain, switching the TLD will be straightforward. Since there won’t be any existing traffic or ranking signals associated with the .com version, you can simply change the domain without needing to implement redirects, which simplifies the process.
SEO Considerations: While there’s minimal risk on a dev site, keep in mind the potential long-term SEO implications of using a .com domain initially, especially if it starts accumulating any backlinks or brand recognition. Even though redirects aren’t necessary from an SEO standpoint in this specific scenario, any backlinks to the .com domain will eventually be lost.
Content and Structure: Ensure that the content and structure of the site are set up correctly on the dev site. This will help you transition smoothly when you switch to the live domain. Also, make sure that when you go live with the .co.uk, you optimize it from the start for local SEO.
Planning for Migration: Even though there is little concern about losing established rankings, make sure to have a plan in place for the switch when the time comes. This includes properly updating any internal links and ensuring the new domain is set up in Google Search Console.
Communication: It may be worth communicating to your boss about the potential issues that could arise if the .com domain gains traction. A clear understanding of the pros and cons can help in making a more informed decision.
In conclusion, if you’re careful with the transition and make sure the dev site remains non-indexable, your plan seems feasible. Just keep in mind the overall SEO implications and be prepared for any adjustments needed when you go live with the cctld.