Five scoping decisions to make before starting any Next.js project

A developer writing for DEV Community argues that most Next.js project overruns stem from vague scope rather than technical complexity, and outlines five areas to define before a single line of code is written. The first step is mapping every URL the site must serve and specifying how each page should be rendered, since that choice directly affects architecture and hosting costs. Selecting a CMS early is equally critical, as the decision shapes schema design, editorial workflow, and query strategy throughout the build. Clients must also confirm all third-party integrations upfront — including analytics, forms, search, authentication, and video — since each adds implementation complexity and potential for scope creep. Addressing these areas in a formal project brief before development begins helps align expectations on both budget and timeline.