ToolsRanks checklist

Online Course Launch Checklist

Most courses fail not on content but on validation and launch. This checklist takes you from a raw idea to your first paying students, in the order that de-risks each step. Tick items off, then Print → Save as PDF.

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1 Validate before you build

Phase 1 · Validate

Pick one painful, specific problemA course that solves a sharp problem for a clear person beats a broad "everything" course.
Confirm people already pay to solve itExisting books, coaches or competing courses are proof of demand, not a threat.
Talk to 5-10 target buyersAsk what they've tried and what they'd pay to fix it. Use their words in your sales page.
Pre-sell or collect a waitlist firstValidate with real intent (deposits or signups) before recording a single lesson.

2 Design the offer

Phase 2 · Offer

Define the transformationState the before → after outcome a student gets, not just the topics covered.
Outline modules around outcomesEach module should move the student one concrete step closer to the result.
Set a price that reflects the outcomePrice on value/result, not on hours of video. Plan tiers/payment options if useful.
Add bonuses that remove objectionsTemplates, a community, or a live Q&A can be worth more than more lessons.

3 Pick your platform & set up payments

Phase 3 · Platform

Choose a course/community platformMatch it to your needs and fees (see the course profit calculator) — all-in-one vs course-only vs community.
Connect a payment processorStripe/PayPal; test a real purchase end-to-end before launch.
Set up checkout, taxes and receiptsVAT/sales tax handling, order confirmation emails and refund policy in place.
Build the sales pageHeadline = the transformation, proof, curriculum, FAQ, guarantee, clear CTA.

4 Create the content

Phase 4 · Build

Record a minimum lovable versionEnough modules to deliver the core result; you can expand after launch.
Keep lessons short and action-drivenEnd each with a task so students make progress, not just watch.
Add worksheets/templatesDownloadables boost completion and perceived value.
Test the student experienceEnrol a test account: video, audio, captions, mobile, download links all work.

5 Build the audience

Phase 5 · Pre-launch

Set up an email list + lead magnetA free resource that solves a slice of the problem grows the waitlist.
Publish pre-launch contentPosts/videos/emails that teach the problem and tease the solution.
Open a waitlist with an early-bird offerReward early buyers; create a real reason to act on launch day.

6 Launch & follow up

Phase 6 · Launch

Run a launch email sequenceOpen cart, value, social proof, FAQ/objections, last-chance close.
Use ethical urgencyA real deadline or bonus expiry — never fake scarcity.
Onboard buyers fastA great first 48 hours drives completion, testimonials and refunds avoided.
Collect testimonials & iterateUse early wins as proof and feedback to improve v2.
Set up an evergreen affiliate programMany platforms let your students/affiliates resell — recurring growth on autopilot.

Launch rule: sell the transformation, validate before you build, and ship a minimum lovable course — momentum and testimonials beat a "perfect" course nobody bought.

Platforms to launch on

Pick a platform that fits your offer and keeps your margin. These are strong options; links go to each official site. Compare fees with the course profit calculator first.

Affiliate disclosure: some links below are affiliate links — if you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Systeme.ioFree plan · all-in-one TeachableBeginner-friendly ThinkificNo transaction fees KajabiPremium all-in-one SkoolCourse + community

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