Website Performance Checklist

🎯 How to Use This Checklist

This comprehensive 30-point checklist will help you optimize your website for speed, SEO, user experience, and conversions. Work through each section systematically, checking off items as you complete them. Prioritize High and Medium priority items first for maximum impact.

💡 Pro Tips

Use Google PageSpeed Insights to measure improvements
Test on mobile devices - most traffic comes from mobile
Implement changes gradually and monitor results
Focus on user experience over technical perfection

🚀 Speed Optimization (8 Items)

Optimize Images

Compress images using tools like TinyPNG. Use WebP format when possible. Ensure images are no larger than necessary for display.

Enable Browser Caching

Set cache headers for static resources (CSS, JS, images) to reduce repeat loading times. Aim for 1 year cache for static assets.

Minify CSS and JavaScript

Remove unnecessary characters, whitespace, and comments from code files to reduce file sizes and loading times.

Use Content Delivery Network (CDN)

Serve static assets from servers closer to your users. Popular options include Cloudflare, AWS CloudFront, or Netlify.

Optimize Server Response Time

Ensure server responds in under 200ms. Upgrade hosting if necessary, optimize database queries, and use server-side caching.

Remove Unused Plugins/Code

Deactivate and delete unused plugins, themes, and code that add unnecessary load time to your website.

Implement Lazy Loading

Load images and content only when they're about to enter the viewport to improve initial page load speed.

Optimize Web Fonts

Use font-display: swap, preload critical fonts, and limit the number of font variations loaded on each page.

🔍 SEO Technical Audit (8 Items)

Optimize Page Titles

Ensure each page has a unique, descriptive title under 60 characters that includes target keywords near the beginning.

Write Compelling Meta Descriptions

Create unique meta descriptions under 160 characters that summarize page content and encourage clicks from search results.

Use Proper Header Structure (H1-H6)

Each page should have one H1 tag, followed by logical H2-H6 structure. Include keywords naturally in headers.

Optimize for Mobile-First Indexing

Ensure your mobile version loads quickly and displays all important content that appears on desktop version.

Create XML Sitemap

Submit a current XML sitemap to Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools to help search engines discover your pages.

Optimize Image Alt Text

Add descriptive alt text to all images for accessibility and SEO. Include keywords when relevant but avoid keyword stuffing.

Implement Schema Markup

Add structured data for business information, reviews, products, or articles to help search engines understand your content.

Fix Broken Links and 404 Errors

Use tools like Screaming Frog to identify and fix broken internal/external links and redirect 404 pages appropriately.

🎨 User Experience (7 Items)

Ensure Mobile Responsiveness

Test your website on multiple device sizes. Content should be easily readable and navigable on smartphones and tablets.

Improve Navigation Structure

Create clear, intuitive navigation with logical categories. Users should find any page within 3 clicks from the homepage.

Add Search Functionality

Include a search bar for content-heavy sites. Ensure search results are relevant and help users find what they're looking for.

Optimize Readability

Use sufficient contrast, readable fonts (16px+ for body text), appropriate line spacing, and break up large text blocks.

Implement Accessibility Features

Add keyboard navigation, screen reader support, and ensure your site meets WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines.

Create Custom 404 Page

Design a helpful 404 page with navigation links, search functionality, and suggestions for popular content.

Add Breadcrumb Navigation

Help users understand their location on your site and provide easy navigation back to parent pages or categories.

📈 Conversion Optimization (7 Items)

Optimize Call-to-Action Buttons

Use action-oriented text, contrasting colors, and place CTAs prominently. Test different variations to improve click-through rates.

Simplify Contact Forms

Reduce form fields to essentials only. Use single-column layouts and clear labels. Add progress indicators for multi-step forms.

Add Trust Signals

Include customer testimonials, reviews, security badges, certifications, and company credentials to build credibility.

Implement Live Chat or Contact Options

Provide easy ways for visitors to get help - live chat, phone number, or contact form should be easily accessible.

Set Up Analytics and Goal Tracking

Install Google Analytics, set up conversion goals, and track key metrics like bounce rate, session duration, and conversion rates.

Create Compelling Value Propositions

Clearly communicate what makes your business unique and why visitors should choose you over competitors.

Add Exit-Intent Popups

Capture leaving visitors with relevant offers or newsletter signups. Use sparingly and ensure popups add value.

Need Help Implementing These Improvements?

Aspect Studio helps London wellness professionals get 10+ new clients monthly with professional websites and automatic booking systems.

Get started today: aspectstudio.net/get-started

Questions? hello@aspectstudio.net | +44 7917 453885