Quick answer
A content inventory records the pages and assets to keep, revise, combine, or retire. It helps prevent a redesign from losing useful information, incoming links, or business-critical resources.
Before you begin
Start with current navigation and an available sitemap or analytics report. Include pages customers reach from search, emails, advertisements, and saved links, not only the main menu.
What to do
- Create columns for current URL, page title, purpose, content owner, proposed action, and destination. Add a status column for review and approval.
- Record important downloads, images, forms, embedded tools, and contact details. Identify permission to reuse each asset and whether a replacement is needed.
- Mark each item keep, revise, combine, or retire. Explain the decision so reviewers do not remove a page simply because it looks old.
- For changed or removed URLs, identify the most relevant replacement. Plan appropriate redirects instead of sending all old pages to the homepage.
- Assign responsibility for missing copy and approvals. Confirm what must be ready for launch and what can follow in an agreed later phase.
How to check the result
Compare the inventory with existing navigation, search landing pages, and key workflows. Important old URLs need deliberate outcomes; new pages need owners and clear purposes.
If you need help
For a large site, begin with important sections and document partial coverage. Ask about unlinked pages. Do not publish private downloads or customer records in a public planning sheet.
Related help
- Plan redirects when website page addresses change
- Review a website before approving its launch
- Prepare for website ownership and project handoff
Official references
Reviewed October 31, 2026. Interfaces, vendor availability, and account features can change. Check your current account before making changes.
