3 Essential Tests You Must Run Before Publishing Your Website

When you buy domain and web hosting and are ready to launch your website, it’s tempting to hit the publish button right away. 

However, taking the time to run a few crucial tests can make a big difference in how well your site performs. 

This is especially important if you’re using NZ web hosting providers. In this article, we’ll explore three essential tests you should conduct before making your website live.

Why Testing Matters

Before we dive into the specific tests, let’s understand why testing is so important. There are millions of websites out there, so the battle is tough. Users have high standards for how well websites work and what features they have. 

In fact, studies show that a large percentage of visitors will leave a site if it doesn’t work well. By testing your site thoroughly, you can avoid losing potential customers and ensure a smooth user experience.

3 Website Tests Before Publishing

Test 1: Website Speed Test

One of the most critical factors in website performance is speed. A slow-loading site can frustrate users and harm your search engine rankings. Here’s how to conduct a website speed test:

• Use Online Tools: There are many free website speed test tools available online. These tools analyse your site’s loading time and provide suggestions for improvement.
• Test On Different Devices: Test your site’s speed on desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
• Optimise Images: Large files can slow down your site. Compress images without losing quality to improve loading times.
• Minimise Plugins: Too many plugins can bog down your site. Remove any that aren’t essential.

Test 2: Cross-Browser Compatibility

Your website should look and function properly across different web browsers. Here’s how to test for cross-browser compatibility:

• Identify Popular Browsers: Be sure to test on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.
• Check Layout And Design: Ensure that your site’s design remains consistent across browsers.
• Test Functionality: Make sure all buttons, forms, and interactive elements work correctly in each browser.
• Mobile Responsiveness: Verify that your site adapts well to mobile devices in various browsers.
• Use Online Tools: There are services available that can automatically test your site across multiple browsers and devices.

Test 3: Content and Functionality Check

The final essential test involves a thorough review of your site’s content and features. Here’s what to look for:

• Proofread All Text: Check for spelling and grammar errors throughout your site.
• Test All Links: Ensure that all internal and external links are working correctly.
• Check Forms: If you have contact forms or other interactive elements, make sure they function properly and send information to the right place.
• Review Images And Videos: Confirm that all visual elements display correctly and are optimised for web use.
• Test Navigation: Make sure your site’s menu and navigation structure are intuitive and easy to use.
• Check For Broken Elements: Look for any missing images, icons, or other design elements that might not be loading correctly.

Additional Considerations

While these three tests are essential, there are a few more things to keep in mind:

• Security: Ensure your site has proper security measures in place, especially if you’re handling sensitive user data.
• SEO Basics: Check that your pages have appropriate titles, meta descriptions, and header tags.
• Load Testing: If you expect high traffic, consider running a load test to see how your site handles many simultaneous users.

Conclusion

Taking the time to run these essential tests before publishing your website can save you from headaches down the road. 

A well-tested site provides a better user experience, performs better in search rankings, and is more likely to achieve your online goals. 

Remember, your choice of web hosting services, particularly if you’re looking at web hosting NZ options, can significantly impact your site’s performance.