A badly timed website redesign can shoot your SEO ranking straight to rock bottom. When you’ve finally climbed to the top of Google’s first page, you don’t want it all to fall apart. Know how to prevent it.

To avoid this, there are common best practices that you can adhere to. Following these tips will allow you to avoid any issues with search engines. This will improve the overall user experience while retaining a high SEO ranking.

Here’s what you need to know. Keep reading!

Set Clear SEO Goals

Before starting the redesign process, clearly define your SEO goals. Identify the keywords you want to rank for and the target pages on your website. This will help you prioritize your efforts and focus on retaining the rankings for those keywords and pages.

Additionally, make sure the focus of the redesign remains on improving your existing SEO ranking.

Maintain Url Structure

Whenever possible, try to maintain the same URL structure during the redesign. If you need to change URLs, set up 301 redirects from old URLs to new URLs. This will ensure that search engines and users are directed to the updated pages. This will help preserve the link equity and SEO value.

Do not change URLs on already ranked pages and ensure all new pages are set up with good keyword-rich URLs.

Utilize SEO Services

By utilizing a SEO marketing firm to coordinate the redesign process, you can ensure that your SEO ranking will remain intact. They can review the current keyword rankings and create a plan to achieve the same position, or better, after the redesign.

Additionally, they can update titles and meta descriptions to match the new website structure and content. Through the use of existing and new content, they can assist in creating an SEO-friendly architecture.

Optimize Page Load Speed

Website speed is a crucial ranking factor. As you redesign, focus on optimizing your website’s performance and load speed. Use compressed images, minimize the use of heavy scripts, and leverage caching techniques to improve page load times. Lastly, invest in good hosting to ensure the best performance.

Mobile Responsiveness

Ensure that your redesigned website is fully responsive and optimized for mobile devices. Mobile-friendliness is a significant ranking factor, and a seamless experience across all devices is crucial for retaining and improving your SEO rankings.

Content Optimization

Take the opportunity during the redesign to review and optimize your website’s content. Ensure it is high-quality, relevant, and optimized for your target keywords. You may need to update old content based on the new website design or add additional content to meet the new design guidelines.

Fresh and engaging content can help improve your rankings.

Quick Tips to Retain SEO Rankings After Website Redesign

With proper planning and careful consideration of SEO implementation, you can achieve a successful website redesign and maintain your SEO ranking. Always test your website before it goes live to avoid any major SEO issues. Utilize a combination of content creation, keyword research, and link building to ensure your rankings remain high.

If you need additional help, contact a trusted SEO specialist for the best outcome.

Looking for more tips for your website? You’re in the right place. Check out more of our content today!

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