Loading a web page is like pushing a car uphill. You can either increase the engine power (a better web server) or lighten the car (reduce the code). Most websites today suffer from slow servers and too much code. One of the most common tactics is to install more plugins—adding even more code—rather than trying to “lighten” the existing code.

But this often backfires because you can only simplify the code by removing it, not by adding to it. Adding code increases the likelihood of conflicts… and can compromise your website’s design or functionality.

My philosophy of speed:

1. Reduce the code, don't add to it.
2. Optimize for users, not for test scores like GTmetrix, etc.
3. Caching is the last one.
4. Page loading has to be INSTANT—anything over 3 seconds is too slow for me!

Most people still don’t fully understand what optimization means; they usually just aim for a Google A+ score of 100/100 without understanding the implications. That score is merely a guideline—nothing more. Why should you ignore page scores? It’s because their rating scale is outdated and doesn’t reflect the latest web server technology.

See also: Website Development Services

Source: wpjohnny.com