Strategic Domain Checklist

Pre-Launch Readiness for Founders

Your domain is one of the first things investors, customers, and partners will notice. A weak or misaligned domain can quietly erode trust, increase acquisition costs, and create long-term brand confusion. This checklist helps you identify gaps before they become problems – whether you're preparing to launch, raise, or rebrand.

Take 5 minutes to work through each section. Share it with your co-founders and advisors to align on domain strategy before it becomes urgent.

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Strategic Naming Benchmarks

Name Clarity

Does the domain name match the company or product? Confusion undermines clarity and reduces confidence at every touchpoint.

Investor Fit

Pitch deck worthy? Would this domain name appear credible? Dot-coms typically signal legitimacy more than newer or unconventional TLDs.

Memorability and Navigation

Is the domain name short, direct, and easy to recall or type? Direct navigation and brand search efficiency can reduce CAC over time.

Asset Strategy

Is the Exact Brand Match available? If unavailable, have you prepared alternatives for the top-level choice?

Domain Name Viability Checks

Extension Strategy

Prioritize .com for credibility and investor trust. If unavailable, assess brand risk before using .io, .co, or others. Avoid confusion with active .com owners.

Trademark Search

Run a professional trademark search covering your target markets and classes.

Linguistic Viability

Say it out loud. Spell it. Avoid names that rely on clever wordplay, abbreviations, or creative misspellings if they compromise clarity.

Cross-Market Screening

Confirm the domain name does not carry negative meanings or slang connotations in key international markets or languages.

Acquisition Structures to Consider

Cash and Equity Combination

Blend cash upfront with equity based on valuation.

Lease-to-Own

Use now. Own later. Monthly fees accrue toward a fixed strike price.

Option-Based Use

Secure short-term rights with long-term buyout built in.

Milestone-Linked Tranches

Release payments or equity upon hitting growth triggers.

Red Flags to Avoid

Mismatch Between Domain Name and Brand Name

Launching on a domain name that does not match the brand name creates long-term confusion, especially if the .com is owned and active elsewhere.

Unfamiliar or Low-Trust TLDs

Unconventional domain name extensions may appear speculative or non-serious.

Poor Recall or Ambiguity

If the domain name is difficult to pronounce, spell, or explain, expect higher CAC, lower email deliverability, and slower trust-building.

Readiness Triggers

Domain aligns cleanly with your brand and messaging

Acquisition path is structured and ready to execute

Founders, legal, and capital stakeholders are aligned

Timing supports a key milestone: launch, raise, or rebrand

Ready to secure the right domain?

Post your Domain Request and let qualified owners come to you.