Optimizing Web Performance: A Checklist

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

  1. Image Optimization:
    • Compress images (e.g., WebP, AVIF).
    • Use responsive images (`srcset`, `sizes`).
    • Lazy load offscreen images.
  2. Code Splitting:
    • Break down JavaScript bundles into smaller chunks.
    • Load only the code needed for the current view.
  3. Browser Caching:
    • Leverage browser caching for static assets (images, CSS, JS).
    • Set appropriate `Cache-Control` headers.
  4. Minimize CSS & JavaScript:
    • Minify and compress your code.
    • Remove unused CSS/JS (e.g., using PurgeCSS with Tailwind).
  5. Reduce Server Response Time:
    • Optimize backend code and database queries.
    • Use a CDN for static content.
  6. 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.