Odeona
Comprehensive maintenance, optimization, and enhancement of an existing Shopify theme, achieving a 2x speed improvement through systematic performance optimizations, UI/UX fixes, and feature additions.
The Problem
Performance Issues
The existing theme loaded a significant amount of large images and video content, causing slow initial page loads that were approximately 2x slower than optimal. This directly impacted user experience and conversion rates, with visitors experiencing noticeable delays before content became interactive.
UI/UX Inconsistencies
Across 50+ pages, the theme exhibited layout and styling inconsistencies that needed addressing. Mobile responsiveness issues were present, and the codebase required optimization and refactoring for better maintainability.
Ongoing Maintenance Needs
The client required ongoing maintenance, feature additions, and bug fixes throughout the engagement. The existing theme structure needed enhancement without breaking existing functionality or disrupting the live site.
Constraints & Considerations
- Existing Theme Structure — Working within a previously developed theme meant understanding and respecting the existing architecture, rather than building from scratch. All improvements needed to integrate seamlessly with the current codebase.
- Shopify Platform Limitations — The Shopify platform and theme architecture imposed certain constraints on how optimizations could be implemented, requiring creative solutions within the available framework.
- Backward Compatibility — All changes needed to maintain backward compatibility with existing functionality. Incremental improvements were made without breaking features or disrupting the live site.
- Client Feedback Integration — Throughout the engagement, client feedback was continuously integrated, requiring a flexible approach to development and prioritization.
- Timeline & Incremental Approach — The extended timeline (June 2024 - February 2025) allowed for systematic, incremental improvements rather than a complete overhaul, ensuring stability while achieving significant performance gains.
Approach & Execution
The work was organized into four primary areas: performance optimization (the main focus), feature additions, UI/UX fixes and enhancements, and third-party integrations. Each area was addressed systematically to improve the overall site experience while maintaining the existing theme's functionality.
Performance Optimization
The primary focus was on performance improvements. Global JavaScript was refactored (2,026 lines optimized), intelligent lazy loading was implemented for images and videos, background image loading strategies were optimized, and CSS was refactored (3,143 lines of base.css optimized). Deferred video loading was implemented to reduce initial page load, ensuring that large media assets didn't block critical rendering.
Feature Additions
Custom carousel components were added, including the Ode Image Banner, Ingredient Images carousel, and Footer Message Box carousel. A discount display system was implemented across product components, and comprehensive email templates were developed for customer account activation and order confirmation.
UI/UX Fixes & Enhancements
Over 50 page-specific layout and styling fixes were implemented. Mobile navigation was significantly improved, cart and checkout flows were refined, and numerous bug fixes and hotfixes were addressed throughout the engagement to ensure a polished user experience.
Third-party Integration
The Okendo reviews widget was customized to match the site's aesthetic, and Instagram product integration was optimized for better performance and user experience.
Outcome & Impact
Performance Achievement
Achieved a 2x improvement in page load speed through comprehensive optimization efforts. The site now loads significantly faster, improving user experience and reducing bounce rates.
Code Quality & Maintainability
Refactored over 5,000 lines of code (2,026 lines of JavaScript, 3,143 lines of CSS), improving maintainability and setting a foundation for future enhancements. The codebase is now more organized and easier to work with.
User Experience Improvements
Implemented 50+ UI/UX improvements across pages, enhanced mobile navigation, and refined cart and checkout flows. The site now provides a more consistent and polished experience across all devices.
Project Scope
Over the course of the engagement (June 2024 - February 2025), 83 commits were made, addressing 8+ major features, 5+ major optimization initiatives, and numerous bug fixes and hotfixes. The work was delivered incrementally, ensuring stability while achieving significant improvements.
Systematic maintenance and optimization of existing codebases can yield significant results. Through incremental improvements focused on performance optimization, we achieved a 2x speed improvement while maintaining the site's functionality and aesthetic. This demonstrates the value of methodical, evidence-based optimization work on established platforms.