Website Design Checklist: Boost Conversions and User Experience

website design, landing page

A well-designed website is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it’s a powerful tool that can significantly impact your business’s success. To ensure your website is optimized for conversions and user experience, consider these crucial questions:

Clarity and Navigation

  • Does everything make sense? Is the content clear, concise, and easy to understand? Avoid jargon and technical terms that might confuse visitors.
  • Does it flow well? Is the information presented in a logical sequence, guiding visitors smoothly from one section to the next?
  • Do you immediately know what the site or page is about? Your website should have a clear and concise value proposition.
  • Is the navigation intuitive? Visitors should be able to find what they’re looking for without effort. A well-organized menu and clear calls to action (CTAs) are essential.

Visual Design and User Experience

  • Is the design visually appealing? A visually appealing website can capture attention and create a positive impression. However, prioritize functionality over form.
  • Is the website mobile-friendly? In today’s mobile-first world, a responsive design is crucial. Ensure your website looks and functions seamlessly on all devices. UltimateWB makes this easy with the built-in Responsive app.
  • Is the website loading speed optimal? Slow-loading websites can frustrate visitors and lead to higher bounce rates. Optimize images, minimize HTTP requests, and leverage browser caching to improve load times. Make sure you are using a sleek website builder like UltimateWB and not one full of bloat.
  • Is the typography easy to read? Choose fonts that are clear and legible, especially on smaller screens. You can customize font sizing in a responsive manner from the UltimateWB built-in Styles Manager. No experience necessary!
  • Is the color scheme consistent and pleasing to the eye? A consistent color palette can enhance brand recognition and create a cohesive look and feel.

Conversion Optimization

  • Are there prominent CTAs? Clearly defined CTAs can encourage visitors to take the desired action, whether it’s making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or contacting your business.  
  • Does the website have a strong value proposition? Clearly communicate the unique benefits your product or service offers.
  • Is the checkout process streamlined? A complex or lengthy checkout process can deter potential customers. Keep it simple and minimize the number of steps.
  • Is there a clear contact information? Make it easy for visitors to get in touch with you. All UltimateWB versions have a built-in Contact form that is easily customizable.
  • Is there a clear privacy policy and terms of service? These policies can build trust and transparency.

Testing and Analytics

  • Is the website user-tested? Conduct user testing to gather insights into how real people interact with your website.
  • Are you tracking website analytics? Use analytics tools to monitor website traffic, user behavior, and conversion rates.
  • Are you A/B testing different design elements? A/B testing can help you identify the most effective design choices.

By carefully considering these questions, you can ensure that your website is not only visually appealing but also highly effective in driving conversions and providing a positive user experience.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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Public or Private: Navigating the Path for Your Business

business analysis

The age-old question for many entrepreneurs,  “Ask David!” question : Should I take my business public or keep it private?

The decision to go public or stay private is a pivotal one that can significantly impact your business’s trajectory. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed choice.

Going Public: The Pros and Cons

Pros of Going Public:

  • Access to Capital: Going public allows you to raise a substantial amount of capital by selling shares to the public. This influx of cash can fuel growth, acquisitions, and research and development.
  • Increased Visibility and Prestige: A public listing can significantly enhance your company’s visibility and reputation. It can attract top talent and customers.
  • Liquidity for Shareholders: Publicly-traded shares offer liquidity to shareholders, allowing them to sell their shares on the open market.
  • Stronger Governance: Public companies are subject to stringent regulatory requirements, which can improve corporate governance and accountability.

Cons of Going Public:

  • Increased Regulatory Burden: Public companies face numerous regulatory obligations, including SEC filings, shareholder meetings, and compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley.
  • Short-Term Focus: Public companies are often pressured to deliver short-term results to satisfy shareholders, which can hinder long-term strategic planning.
  • Loss of Control: As a public company, you’ll have to share control with public shareholders, who may have different interests than yours.
  • Increased Scrutiny: Public companies are subject to intense scrutiny from analysts, investors, and the media.

Staying Private: The Pros and Cons

Pros of Staying Private:

  • Greater Flexibility: Private companies have more flexibility in decision-making and can focus on long-term strategic goals without short-term pressures.
  • Reduced Regulatory Burden: Private companies are generally subject to fewer regulatory requirements, which can reduce costs and administrative burdens.
  • Preserved Control: Private companies retain control over their operations and can avoid the scrutiny of public markets.
  • Easier Strategic Planning: Long-term strategic planning is easier for private companies, as they are not beholden to quarterly earnings reports.

Cons of Staying Private:

  • Limited Access to Capital: Private companies may have difficulty raising large amounts of capital, especially compared to public companies.
  • Liquidity Constraints: Shareholders in private companies may have limited liquidity, as their shares are not publicly traded.
  • Difficulty Attracting Top Talent: Some top talent may prefer to work at public companies, as they often offer stock options and other incentives.

Ultimately, the decision to go public or stay private depends on your specific business goals, risk tolerance, and long-term vision.

Key Considerations:

  • Growth Stage: If your company is in a high-growth phase and requires significant capital, going public may be a viable option.
  • Risk Tolerance: Consider your tolerance for risk and scrutiny. Public companies face more scrutiny and regulatory burdens.
  • Control: If you want to maintain control over your company’s direction, staying private may be the better choice.
  • Long-Term Vision: Consider your long-term vision for the company and how going public or staying private aligns with your goals.

By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision that will best serve your business and its stakeholders.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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Homestead Website Builder Users Frustrated by Ongoing Editing Issues

Posted on November 12, 2024 by admin

A Growing Problem

For the past week, numerous Homestead Website Builder users have been unable to edit their websites due to a persistent error message: “This site has changed since you started working in SiteBuilder Plus. To prevent unintended changes to your website, we need to close SiteBuilder and return you to your Homestead home page.”

This issue has caused significant inconvenience and financial loss for many small business owners and individuals who rely on their Homestead websites for online presence and sales.

A Community in Distress

Hundreds of affected users have taken to online forums and social media to express their frustration and seek solutions. The problem appears to be widespread, with no clear indication of a resolution in sight. Many users have reported contacting Homestead’s customer support, but have been met with limited assistance and vague promises.

Potential Impacts

The inability to edit websites can have serious consequences for businesses:

  • Lost Sales: Inability to update product information, pricing, or promotions can lead to missed sales opportunities.
  • Damaged Reputation: Outdated or inaccurate information can negatively impact a business’s credibility.  
  • Frustrated Customers: Customers may encounter broken links, outdated content, or difficulty completing transactions.

What Can Homestead Do?

To rectify this situation, Homestead should:

  1. Prioritize the Issue: Acknowledge the severity of the problem and allocate sufficient resources to address it promptly.
  2. Provide Transparent Communication: Regularly update affected users on the status of the issue and the steps being taken to resolve it.
  3. Offer Temporary Solutions: If a permanent fix is not immediately available, consider providing temporary workarounds or alternative editing tools.
  4. Compensate Affected Users: Offer compensation or credits to users who have experienced financial loss or significant inconvenience due to the issue.

By taking decisive action, Homestead can restore trust with its customer base and mitigate the negative impact of this ongoing problem.

Related: Maintain SEO Power During Your Website Migration & Rebuild: A Smooth Builder Switch

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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How to Monitor Your Backlink Profile: A Comprehensive Guide

monitor website backlinks

A strong backlink profile is crucial for improving your website’s search engine rankings. It signals to search engines that your content is valuable and authoritative. However, it’s equally important to monitor your backlink profile to ensure that it’s healthy and free from any toxic links that could harm your website’s reputation.

Why Monitor Your Backlink Profile?

  1. Identify Toxic Backlinks: Toxic backlinks can negatively impact your website’s search engine rankings. By monitoring your backlink profile, you can identify and disavow these harmful links.
  2. Track Link Growth: Tracking your backlink growth over time can help you assess the effectiveness of your link-building strategies.
  3. Monitor Brand Mentions: Keep an eye on brand mentions to identify potential backlink opportunities and address negative sentiment.
  4. Identify Link Loss: Monitor your backlink profile to identify any lost links and take steps to recover them.

Tools to Monitor Your Backlink Profile

Several tools can help you monitor your backlink profile effectively:

  1. Google Search Console:
    • Provides a comprehensive overview of your website’s backlinks.
    • Allows you to identify and disavow toxic backlinks.
    • Tracks your website’s organic search traffic and keyword rankings.
  2. Ahrefs:
    • Offers advanced backlink analysis, including backlink profiles, keyword research, and competitor analysis.
    • Allows you to monitor your backlink profile in real-time.
    • Provides detailed information about the quality and quantity of your backlinks.
  3. Moz:
    • Offers a suite of SEO tools, including a powerful backlink analysis tool.
    • Tracks your website’s domain authority and page authority.
    • Provides valuable insights into your website’s SEO performance.
  4. SEMrush:
    • Offers a comprehensive suite of SEO tools, including backlink analysis, keyword research, and competitor analysis.
    • Allows you to monitor your backlink profile over time.
    • Provides valuable insights into your website’s organic search traffic.

How to Monitor Your Backlink Profile

  1. Use a Backlink Analysis Tool: Choose a tool that suits your needs and budget.
  2. Identify Your Backlinks: Use the tool to identify all of your website’s backlinks.
  3. Assess Link Quality: Evaluate the quality of each backlink based on the authority of the linking website, the relevance of the anchor text, and the overall context of the link.
  4. Disavow Toxic Backlinks: If you identify any toxic backlinks, use Google Search Console’s Disavow Tool to instruct Google to ignore them.
  5. Build High-Quality Backlinks: Focus on building high-quality backlinks from reputable websites.
  6. Monitor Your Backlink Profile Regularly: Regularly monitor your backlink profile to identify any new backlinks, lost links, or toxic links.

By following these steps and using the right tools, you can effectively monitor your backlink profile and ensure that it’s healthy and optimized for search engines.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

Posted in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10 Top Ways to Build Quality Backlinks

backlinks, SEO

“Ask David!” question: “How can I get more backlinks to my website?”

Backlinks are crucial for improving your website’s search engine ranking. They act as votes of confidence, indicating to search engines that your content is valuable and relevant. While there are numerous strategies to acquire backlinks, leveraging specific websites can significantly boost your backlink profile. Here are some of the top websites to consider:

1. HARO (Help a Reporter Out)

While HARO is shutting down soon, it’s worth mentioning as it was a popular platform for journalists to find expert sources. By offering valuable insights, you could get featured in articles, resulting in high-quality backlinks. Similar platforms like Source of Sources and JournoFinder can be great alternatives.

2. Quora

Quora is a question-and-answer platform where you can provide insightful answers to relevant questions. By including a link to your website in your answers, you can attract organic traffic and build valuable backlinks.

3. Reddit

Reddit is a massive online community with various subreddits dedicated to specific topics. By actively participating in discussions and sharing relevant content, you can earn valuable backlinks from high-authority subreddits.

4. Guest Posting

Guest posting on high-quality blogs and websites in your niche is a proven strategy to acquire backlinks. Research relevant blogs, pitch your ideas, and write high-quality content that adds value to the audience.

5. Forums and Communities

Participate in online forums and communities related to your niche. Share your expertise, answer questions, and provide helpful advice. By building a strong reputation, you can naturally earn backlinks from your forum posts.

6. Social Media Platforms

While social media platforms may not directly lead to backlinks, they can help you build brand awareness and drive traffic to your website. Share your content on platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook, and engage with your audience.

7. Web Directories

Submit your website to relevant web directories to increase its visibility and potentially earn backlinks. However, focus on high-quality directories with a good reputation.

8. Resource Pages

Identify websites in your niche that have resource pages or link directories. Reach out to the website owners and request to be included in their list.

9. Broken Link Building

Find broken links on other websites and offer to replace them with your own relevant content. This is a great way to earn high-quality backlinks.

10. Email Outreach

Direct outreach to bloggers and influencers in your industry can be effective for building backlinks. Identify relevant websites and reach out to the website owners with a personalized email pitch.

Remember:

  • Quality Over Quantity: Focus on acquiring backlinks from high-quality, authoritative websites.
  • Relevance: Ensure that the backlinks are relevant to your website’s content and target audience.
  • Natural Link Building: Avoid black-hat tactics like spammy link building, as it can harm your website’s ranking.
  • Monitor Your Backlink Profile: Regularly monitor your backlink profile to identify any toxic or low-quality backlinks and take necessary steps to disavow them.

By following these strategies and focusing on building high-quality backlinks, you can significantly improve your website’s search engine ranking and drive organic traffic.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

Posted in Ask David!, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Validating Your SaaS Idea: A Quick Guide

validating saas idea

Validating a SaaS idea can be a daunting task, especially when resources are limited. However, with a strategic approach, you can efficiently determine if your solution truly addresses a real-world problem. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Market Research and Competitive Analysis:

  • Identify Your Target Market: Clearly define your ideal customer profile (ICP). Understand their pain points, needs, and preferences.
  • Analyze the Competition: Evaluate existing solutions, their strengths, weaknesses, and market gaps.
  • Conduct Surveys and Interviews: Gather qualitative feedback from potential customers to validate your assumptions.
  • Utilize Online Tools: Leverage tools like Google Trends, SimilarWeb, and social media listening to gauge market interest.

2. Build a Minimum Viable Product (MVP):

  • Prioritize Core Features: Focus on the essential features that solve the core problem.
  • Iterative Development: Build and release your MVP quickly, gathering feedback with each iteration.
  • A/B Testing: Experiment with different features, designs, and pricing models to optimize user experience and conversion rates.

3. Leverage Online Platforms and Communities:

  • Social Media: Engage with your target audience on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Reddit.
  • Online Forums and Communities: Participate in relevant discussions to understand community needs and pain points.
  • Product Hunt: Launch your MVP on Product Hunt or similar websites to gain early traction and valuable feedback.

4. Beta Testing and User Feedback:

  • Recruit Beta Testers: Select a diverse group of users to test your product.
  • Gather Feedback: Use surveys, interviews, and analytics to collect user insights.
  • Iterate Based on Feedback: Continuously improve your product based on user feedback.

5. Validate Your Business Model:

  • Pricing Strategy: Test different pricing models to find the optimal balance between value and cost.
  • Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC): Analyze the cost of acquiring new customers and the lifetime value (LTV) of each customer.
  • Churn Rate: Monitor customer retention to ensure long-term sustainability.

Key Questions to Ask Yourself:

  • Problem Validation: Is there a significant pain point that your solution addresses?
  • Market Validation: Is there a large enough market for your product?
  • Product Validation: Does your product effectively solve the problem?
  • Business Model Validation: Is your business model sustainable and profitable?

By following these steps and asking the right questions, you can effectively validate your SaaS idea and increase your chances of building a successful business. Remember, the key to validation is to listen to your target market and iterate quickly.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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Help a Reporter Out (HARO) to Shut Down: A Loss for Journalists and SEOs

Posted on November 11, 2024 by admin
HARO: help a reporter out

The digital landscape of journalism is facing a significant shift with the impending closure of Help a Reporter Out (HARO), now known as the Connectively Platform. This platform, which served as a vital connection point between journalists and expert sources, will be discontinued on December 9, 2024.

A Brief History of HARO

Founded in 2008, HARO’s journey began as a simple Facebook group. It quickly evolved into a widely used mailing list, connecting journalists and bloggers with the public for valuable feedback. In 2010, Vocus acquired HARO, followed by Cision’s merger with Vocus in 2014.

HARO’s Impact on Journalism and SEO

HARO provided journalists with a streamlined way to find credible sources for their stories. Experts could contribute their insights by responding to journalist queries, fostering a collaborative environment for news creation. For many SEOs, HARO offered an attractive opportunity to gain brand awareness and potentially acquire valuable backlinks through expert commentary in published articles.

The End of an Era

Cision’s announcement on December 9th sparked concern within the journalism and SEO communities. The company cited a focus on core offerings and an evaluation of their product portfolio as the reason for discontinuing Connectively (formerly HARO).

Here’s Cision’s official statement:

“After assessing feedback from our customers and evaluating our product portfolio, we have decided to focus our attention on core offerings where we see significant opportunities to deliver even more value to our PR & Comms professionals – namely our integrated, award-winning CisionOne platform.”

Cision emphasizes the comprehensive features of their CisionOne platform, including media monitoring, analytics, and journalist outreach tools. However, the platform has a different focus than the niche service provided by HARO, leaving many unsure how it will fully replace the discontinued platform.

Alternatives to HARO

While HARO’s closure is a significant loss, several alternative platforms can help journalists and SEOs continue to connect with experts and build relationships:

  • Source of Sources: Founded by HARO’s creator, Ken Burbary, this platform aims to provide a more efficient and effective way for journalists to connect with sources.
  • JournoFinder: This platform allows journalists to search for experts and sources based on specific topics and keywords.
  • Help a PR Out (HAPO): This platform is similar to HARO but focuses on connecting PR professionals with journalists.
  • MediaFish: This platform helps journalists find relevant experts and sources by analyzing news articles and social media.

The Future of Journalism Sourcing

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial for journalists to adapt to new technologies and platforms. While the loss of HARO is significant, it also presents an opportunity to reimagine the way we source information and connect with experts.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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Desktop Web Design: A Forgotten Art?

Creative, original web design

“Ask David!” question: “What do you think of websites today?”

The Decline of the Desktop Experience

It seems like we’ve entered an era where mobile design has taken center stage, leaving desktop experiences to fend for themselves. While I appreciate the importance of mobile optimization, I can’t help but feel a growing sense of disappointment with the state of desktop design.

The Noise and the Boredom

Many websites today are designed with a mobile-first approach, often resulting in bloated, cluttered desktop interfaces. The screen real estate is filled with unnecessary elements, oversized fonts, and excessive animations. It’s as if designers are afraid of leaving any space blank. This visual overload can be overwhelming and distracting, making it difficult to focus on the content.

On the other hand, we’re witnessing a trend towards generic, cookie-cutter designs. Many websites look almost identical, with the same layout, typography, and color palettes. While consistency is important, it’s also essential to maintain a sense of individuality and creativity. UltimateWB allows you to be original and customize to match your brand personality.

A Call for Balance

It’s time to rediscover the beauty and efficiency of well-designed desktop experiences. We need to strike a balance between mobile optimization and desktop elegance. Designers should prioritize clarity, simplicity, and user-friendliness. Here are a few tips to improve desktop design:

  • Prioritize Content: Focus on delivering valuable content in a clear and concise manner.
  • Embrace White Space: Use whitespace strategically to create a clean and visually appealing layout.
  • Choose Typography Wisely: Select fonts that are easy to read and enhance the overall aesthetic.
  • Use Animations Sparingly: Reserve animations for specific purposes, such as highlighting important information or guiding user interactions.
  • Test Across Devices: Ensure your designs look and function well on various screen sizes and resolutions. UltimateWB makes it easy for you to build a responsive, mobile-friendly website with the built-in Responsive app.

By following these guidelines, we can create desktop experiences that are both functional and visually pleasing. It’s time to reclaim the desktop and elevate the digital experience for all users.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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Website or App First? A Startup’s Dilemma

UltimateWB Responsive app for cross-device compatibility
The UltimateWB built-in Responsive app helps you easily create a mobile-friendly responsive website, with a backend database that can be used for your app too.

“Ask David!” question: “Should I build a website first or app for my startup?”

The age-old question for startups: website or app?

When launching a new venture, deciding whether to prioritize a website or a mobile app can be a daunting task. Both options have their merits and drawbacks, and the optimal choice often depends on your specific business model, target audience, and long-term goals.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Website

  • Pros:
    • Cost-effective: Website development is generally more affordable than app development.
    • Faster time to market: Websites can be launched more quickly than apps.
    • Broader reach: Websites are accessible to a wider audience across various devices.
    • SEO benefits: Websites can be optimized for search engines, driving organic traffic.
  • Cons:
    • User Preference: Some users may prefer using an app.

Mobile App

  • Pros:
    • Enhanced user experience: Apps can offer a more immersive and tailored experience.
    • Push notifications: Apps allow for direct communication with users.
    • Offline functionality: Some apps can function offline, improving user satisfaction.
    • Brand loyalty: Apps can strengthen brand loyalty and customer retention.
  • Cons:
    • Higher development costs: App development is generally more expensive than website development.
    • Platform limitations: Apps must be developed for specific platforms (iOS, Android).
    • App store approval process: App store approval can be time-consuming and unpredictable.

A Balanced Approach: The Hybrid Model

In many cases, a hybrid approach that combines both a website and a mobile app can be the most effective strategy. This allows you to:

  • Establish a strong online presence: A website can serve as your digital storefront and provide essential information about your business.
  • Offer a superior mobile experience: A mobile app can enhance user engagement and loyalty.
  • Prioritize features: Focus on developing the most critical features for your app, while providing essential information and functionality through your website.

Focus on the User

By carefully considering your target audience’s needs and preferences, and prioritizing a mobile-friendly design, you can create a product that resonates with your users and sets your startup up for success. Whether you choose to start with a website or an app, or both, remember to focus on providing a seamless and valuable user experience.

Ultimately, the best decision for your startup will depend on a variety of factors. Consider your budget, development timeline, target audience, and long-term goals. By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision that will set your business up for success.

Build Your Website, Power Your App with UltimateWB

Google Play & App Store apps

UltimateWB is a powerful and versatile website builder that empowers you to create stunning, responsive websites tailored to any niche. With its user-friendly interface, built-in Responsive app, and extensive customization options, you can easily design mobile-friendly websites that look great on all devices. You not only get cross-device compatibility, but also cross-platform compatibility and cross-browser compatibility. The robust backend database system provides a solid foundation for your website and can also be leveraged to power your mobile app, streamlining development and ensuring data consistency across platforms. On the UltimateWB Showcase page, you can find many websites that are built on UltimateWB and have apps powered with the UltimateWB backend database in Google Play and the App Store.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

Posted in Ask David!, Business, General | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Integrating Google Adsense Ads takes the PageSpeed Insights Mobile Performance Score from 98 to 85 because of the “Total Blocking Time” – Is there any way to avoid this?

This is an example of the Performance boost we have gotten after implementing this Lazy Loading Ads trick.

Yes! Thanks for your “Ask David!” question. Reducing the performance impact of Google Adsense ads can be challenging since they often load additional resources and scripts that affect page speed. However, we have found that doing Lazy Loading for ads brings the Mobile Performance Score back in the green, to the upper 90’s, if not 100.

How to Lazy Load Ads

You can lazy load ads by using Intersection Observer to lazy-load ads only when they’re about to enter the viewport. This can improve the initial page load and overall performance scores by only loading ads as users scroll down.

Here’s the code:

UltimateWB Ad(d)s App

Using UltimateWB website builder, copy/paste the following code in the Ad(d)s app, for “Right before end body tag”:

document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function() {
  const ads = document.querySelectorAll('.adsbygoogle');
  const observer = new IntersectionObserver((entries, observer) => {
    entries.forEach(entry => {
      if (entry.isIntersecting) {
        const script = document.createElement('script');
        script.src = "//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js";
        script.defer = true;
        document.body.appendChild(script);
        script.onload = function() {
          (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
        };
        observer.unobserve(entry.target);
      }
    });
  });
  ads.forEach(ad => observer.observe(ad));
});

And you can add your Google Adsense code to a new Ad(d) that you create, and then copy/paste the generated Placeholder Text to the List Pages > Add / Edit Page, where you want it:

<div class="adsbygoogle-container">
    <ins class="adsbygoogle"
         style="display:block"
         data-ad-client="[your info]"
         data-ad-slot="[your info]"
         data-ad-format="auto"></ins>
</div>

By using the Ad(d)s app, you can use the same Placeholder Text for the Google Adsense ad to easily place multiple ads on various sections of your website.

Additional Tips

Optimize Ad Placement and Density: Reducing the number of ad slots per page or moving them further down can improve the initial load time and boost the page’s performance score.

We haven’t found this necessary, but some have suggested:

Limit Ad Formats and Styles: Certain ad formats, like rich media or video, tend to load more resources and impact performance more than static or simpler formats. Using lighter ad formats or setting ad slots to fixed sizes (instead of data-ad-format="auto") may reduce resource load.

Having PageSpeed Insights scores in the green can help with your website SEO and search engine ranking, so it is well worth it implementing this trick when you want to integrate ads. It doesn’t have to be one or the other :-)

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

Got a techy/website question? Whether it’s about UltimateWB or another website builder, web hosting, or other aspects of websites, just send in your question in the “Ask David!” form. We will email you when the answer is posted on the UltimateWB “Ask David!” section.

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