To avoid losing elements that you did not mean to lose while changing your WordPress theme, follow the next steps to ensure that the process runs smoothly:
- Make notes on your current theme
- Be cautious of the sidebars and ensure that the new theme is widget-ready
- Don’t lose tracking
- Always back up your files
- Turn on Maintenance Mode while making changes
- Test all functionality and plugins
- Test your site in all browsers you have access to
- Let your users know about your changes and new look
- Change smaller elements to make sure that it behaves properly in all browsers until you are comfortable enough to make big changes
- Test the loading time
- Monitor the bounce rate
- Listen to your readers and improve your website based on their suggestions