optimizing wordpress - state of search 2014
DESCRIPTION
WordPress is one of the most popular and reliable platforms for publishing content. If your site is running WordPress, there’s a good chance it could be improved with a few simple changes. Learn how to make your WordPress sites faster, more secure, and better for today’s search engine guidelines.TRANSCRIPT
Optimizing
WordPress
Brian LaFrance Marketing Director – AuthorityLabs
Twitter - @blafrance
Getting Set up Right is
Critical
Self vs. Managed Hosting
Choosing a Server
Choosing a Theme
• Avoid bloated themes
• Frameworks vs. Themes
Mobile Considerations
• Responsive design – mobile first
• Don’t go overboard – Logical breakpoints
• Prioritize for better user experience
• Minimize resources sent to devices
Use WP_DEBUG
Permalinks
Change Your Timezone
Reading Settings
Comment Handling
Image Sizing
Plugins
• More plugins = less security• Choose wisely• Plugins vs. Theme Functionality• Not always one size fits all• Delete any plugins that are not in use
Caching & Speed
WordPress SEO by Yoast
Managing Javascripts
• Plugin developers are lazy
• Use Google Hosted Libraries
• Use wp_enqueue_script()
• Monitor for errors (Errorception)
• Combine when possible (Segment.io)
Social Integration
• Don’t need a plugin
• Consider mobile devices
• Use shortcodes to add inline
Updates & Security
• Keep everything updated regularly• Multiple installs? Centralize tracking• Use Sucuri• Back everything up daily
Launching a New Site or Design
• Check rendering in all browsers• Check titles & descriptions• Don’t rely on WP for www vs. non-www• Test all forms• Test redirects of old pages
Quick TipsSite searches = content ideas
Customize your <!--more--> tags
Learn to use hooksNever, ever edit core files. Don’t do it.
Optimizing
WordPress
Brian LaFrance Marketing Director – AuthorityLabs
Twitter - @blafrance