In brief: WebP is an image format for the web supporting lossy and lossless compression, transparency, and animation. Suitability depends on the image and optimization method.
How I use WEBP format in practice
I address the format from the simplest test toward more expensive diagnosis. First I reproduce the problem, separate content errors from template errors, and determine how many URLs are affected. I deploy the fix to a small sample, check status and internal links, and only then expand it.
What to watch out for
Technical fixes must not hide weak content. WEBP can remove an obstacle, but it cannot create a reason to visit or trust a page. I therefore evaluate the fix together with the URL’s role, internal linking, and next step.
Questions for decisions
- What exactly does the server return and what does a person see on the important URL?
- Is it a single error or a pattern in a shared template?
- What is the impact on findability, use, or conversion?
- How will we test the change before rolling it out?