A launch date does not make a service ready. Use these questions to expose gaps while there is still time to act.

Users and purpose

  • The intended users and their main need are clear.
  • The first useful outcome can be explained in plain language.
  • Representative users have completed the important journeys.
  • Accessibility and mobile use have been checked.

Ownership and operations

  • One accountable owner can make decisions after launch.
  • Support routes, response expectations and escalation points are documented.
  • Known manual work and exceptions have named owners.
  • Teams know what changes on launch day.

Data and technology

  • Required data is available, lawful, accurate enough and protected.
  • Integrations, permissions, backups and recovery routes have been tested.
  • Monitoring identifies failure before users have to report it repeatedly.
  • A rollback or safe-stop decision is understood.

Evidence and improvement

  • Success measures relate to the user and service outcome.
  • A baseline exists where comparison matters.
  • Feedback can reach the people able to act on it.
  • The first post-launch review has a date and owner.