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Streamline Your Shopify Store’s Performance with Expert CLS Optimization

By Bhavesha | Dec 28, 2021 | 5 min read

Don’t let frustrating layout shifts sabotage your Shopify success. Achieve website performance excellence with expert CLS optimization from OSC Professionals. We eliminate visual disruptions, boost your SEO, skyrocket conversions, and build brand trust, securing your Shopify store’s top spot in the market.

Why CLS  Matters for Shopify Stores-

  • What is CLS?
  • What is a Good CLS Score?
  • How to Improve Cumulative Layout Shift
  • Our Commitment to CLS Excellence
  • Your Shopify Store, Elevated

What is CLS?

CLS stands for Cumulative Layout Shift and is one of the web vital parameters that has a 25% weightage for the GSI(Google Speed Insight) score. User experience is determined by this parameter.
You might have experienced that suddenly a line that was being read has moved down as some image got displayed moving the content downwards, this is an example of CLS.

Understanding CLS Scores for Optimal Page Stability

CLS scores are essential for crafting seamless digital experiences.

Here’s a breakdown of CLS scores and their implications

  • Excellent (0-0.1): The ideal benchmark, indicating minimal layout shifts for a smooth user journey.
  • Needs Improvement (0.1-0.25): Signals room for optimization to enhance visual stability.
  • Poor (Greater than 0.25): Denotes significant layout shifts, potentially hindering user engagement.

Google’s Recommendation for Optimal Page Performance:

To ensure a top-notch user experience, Google advocates for a CLS score below 0.1. This aligns with their performance tools’ assessment of layout stability.

cls-score

How to Improve Cumulative Layout Shift

We will find the following opportunities at GSI for optimizing the Cumulative Layout Shift

1) Specifying the Dimensions of an Image

Always specify width and height for your website’s image and video elements so that the correct spacing is used for images/video. In this case, page space could only be reserved after the image had been downloaded, resulting in a major layout change as the image is resized.

2) Reducing Layout Shifts Caused by Ads, Embeds and iframes

To reduce layout shifts caused by Ads embeds and iframe, and do things like:
  • Reserved Ad slot size(Preferably the largest) before loading the Ad library.
  • Ads should be moved to the bottom or out of view
  • Placing placeholders when no ads are available is a good idea.
  • Videos and images should include width and height elements.

3) Inserting New Content Above Existing Content Should be Avoided

If you are inserting dynamic content (e.g. banners, forms, etc.) above assisting content, make sure that it is in response to the user’s interaction. In this way, unexpected layout shifts can be avoided.

4) Webfonts that are Invisible Should be Prevented

In some cases, fonts are downloaded later, and default fonts are applied, which might be smaller or larger. As soon as the fonts are available, they will be applied and the layout will change, leading to a higher CLS score. We will write CSS so that it takes space variation into account in order to prevent such a situation from occurring.

Looking For Expert Shopify Speed Optimization And Other Services Get In Touch

Site Speed Performance Analysis Tools

Our Commitment to CLS Excellence

We employ a multi-faceted approach to CLS optimization, meticulously addressing every element that contributes to layout shifts:

  • Image Perfection: We ensure each image and video element has precisely defined dimensions, eliminating layout shifts triggered by content loading.
  • Ads in Harmony: We strategically position ads, embeds, and iframes to prevent unwanted content shifts, expertly utilizing techniques such as reserving ad slots, lazy loading, and implementing placeholders.
  • Content Integrity: We safeguard against unexpected layout disruptions by ensuring that dynamic content, such as banners and forms, is added only in response to user interactions.
  • Font Harmony: We meticulously manage font loading to guarantee a consistent visual experience, preventing layout shifts caused by font variations.

Your Shopify Store, Elevated

Through our comprehensive CLS optimization services, we’ll empower your Shopify store to achieve:

  • Exceptional User Experience: A seamless and visually stable interface that fosters trust and engagement.
  • Enhanced Search Rankings: Improved visibility in Google’s search results, driving increased organic traffic.

Ready to Unleash Your Store’s Full Potential? 

Partner with our team of Shopify experts and experience the transformative power of CLS optimization. Contact us today to embark on a journey towards a lightning-fast, visually captivating, and top-ranking Shopify store.

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