Optimizing Web Performance: A Checklist
By Charlie Brown on
Web performance is critical for user satisfaction, SEO, and conversion rates. A fast website provides a better user experience and helps achieve business goals.
Performance Checklist
- Image Optimization:
- Compress images (e.g., WebP, AVIF).
- Use responsive images (`srcset`, `sizes`).
- Lazy load offscreen images.
- Code Splitting:
- Break down JavaScript bundles into smaller chunks.
- Load only the code needed for the current view.
- Browser Caching:
- Leverage browser caching for static assets (images, CSS, JS).
- Set appropriate `Cache-Control` headers.
- Minimize CSS & JavaScript:
- Minify and compress your code.
- Remove unused CSS/JS (e.g., using PurgeCSS with Tailwind).
- Reduce Server Response Time:
- Optimize backend code and database queries.
- Use a CDN for static content.
- Critical CSS:
- Inline critical CSS for above-the-fold content.
- Defer non-critical CSS.
Regularly audit your website with tools like Lighthouse or WebPageTest to identify bottlenecks and track improvements.