Checklist: Ensuring Your Site Passes Google’s Page Experience Metrics

As of May 2021, Google’s Page Experience update has been rolled out, impacting the way websites are ranked on search engine results pages (SERPs). This update places a strong emphasis on user experience, considering factors such as page speed, interaction, and mobile-friendliness. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed checklist to ensure your site meets Google’s Page Experience metrics.

1. Core Web Vitals: Ensure Good Performance

• Largest Contentful Paint (LCP): LCP measures the time it takes for the largest element on your page to load. Aim for an LCP of 2.5 seconds or less.
• First Input Delay (FID): FID assesses the time it takes for a user’s first interaction with your site to be processed. Strive for an FID of 100 milliseconds or less.
• Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS): CLS measures the visual stability of your page, specifically how much it shifts around as elements load. Target an CLS score of 0.1 or less.

To improve Core Web Vitals:

• Optimize images: Compress and resize images to reduce their file size.
• Minify CSS and JavaScript files: Remove unnecessary characters from your code to speed up loading times.
• Preload key resources: Specify in the HTML of a webpage which other documents or resources it is likely that the user will need next, using .

2. Mobile-friendliness: Ensure Easy Navigation

Your site’s mobile usability plays a significant role in its Page Experience score. Make sure:

• Responsive design: Your site adapts well to different screen sizes and orientations.
• Clear navigation: Menu items are easily accessible, and the layout is clean and simple.

To improve mobile usability:

• Test on various devices: Ensure your site looks great on different smartphones and tablets.
• Simplify menus: Make sure menu options are clear and concise.
• Use clear typography: Choose fonts that are easy to read on smaller screens.

3. HTTPS and Secure Browsing: Protect User Data

• Secure protocol: Ensure your site uses HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) for all connections.
• No certificate issues: Check that there are no security certificate problems or expired certificates.

To improve HTTPS:

• Obtain an SSL/TLS certificate: Purchase a trusted certificate from reputable providers like Let’s Encrypt or Comodo.
• Configure your server: Set up your web server to use the certificate for secure connections.
• Redirect HTTP traffic: Guide any visitors who land on your site via non-HTTPS URLs to the correct page.

4. Reduce Pop-ups and Interference: Respect User Intent

• Minimal pop-ups: Avoid intrusive ads or prompts that might distract users from their intended actions.
• No interstitials: Prevent unnecessary pages opening in front of or behind your main content.

To reduce pop-ups and interference:

• Use targeted advertising: Display relevant ads that are less likely to annoy users.
• Optimize user flow: Ensure a seamless experience by minimizing interruptions.
• Test user behavior: Conduct A/B testing to see how different designs impact user engagement.