If your website is slow, users leave before they read your offer. Speed affects both SEO and sales.

This is the checklist we use for service websites, SaaS landing pages, and ecommerce builds.

1. Optimize your hero section first

The first visible section controls perceived speed.

  • Compress hero images and serve modern formats like WebP or AVIF
  • Avoid heavy sliders above the fold
  • Keep one clear heading and one CTA

2. Improve Core Web Vitals

Focus on these three:

  • LCP: make the main content load fast
  • CLS: prevent layout shifts by reserving space for media
  • INP: reduce input delay by limiting heavy scripts

3. Remove script bloat

Most sites load too many third-party scripts.

  • Remove unused chat, tracking, or popup scripts
  • Delay non-critical scripts until user interaction
  • Combine duplicate analytics tools

4. Use smart caching

Set cache headers for static assets and use a CDN.

  • Long cache for images, fonts, and JS bundles
  • Server-side caching for repeated API responses
  • Revalidate only when content changes

5. Optimize forms and conversion flows

Speed is not just page load. It is also user flow speed.

  • Keep form fields minimal
  • Use inline validation
  • Reduce redirect chains after form submit

6. Check mobile first

Most users visit from mobile. Test on real devices, not only desktop tools.

  • Audit on 4G network simulation
  • Keep tap targets large
  • Avoid animation-heavy sections on low-end devices

7. Track business impact

Technical speed gains should connect to business outcomes.

Measure:

  • Bounce rate
  • Lead form completion rate
  • Cost per lead from paid traffic

Final take

A fast website ranks better, feels premium, and converts more users. Start with the hero, remove bloat, and optimize the full conversion path.