Open Graph in PrestaShop: What It Is, Why It’s Needed, and How It’s Used.

Open Graph is a technology that enhances how web pages are displayed on social media and messaging platforms. In today’s world, where social networks are essential for businesses, ensuring that information about products and pages in your online store is properly displayed on these platforms can significantly increase customer attraction. In this article, we will explain what Open Graph is, why it’s important, and how to use it with the PrestaShop CMS.

What is Open Graph?

Open Graph is a set of tags developed to structure information about a webpage. These tags inform social networks and other platforms how to display a link to your site in an attractive, informative way. For example, when a user shares a link to a page on social media, Open Graph tags automatically add an image, title, and description, improving perception and increasing the likelihood of clicks.

Example of basic Open Graph tags:

Why Use Open Graph?

• Increases Clickability: Visually appealing, well-structured information on social media attracts more attention, boosting the click-through rate. Even a small online store can see a noticeable increase in traffic with properly configured Open Graph tags.
• Social Media Optimization: Open Graph provides a standardized way to display information across social platforms, allowing site owners to control how their links appear on social networks.
• Enhances Brand Reputation: Clear titles, thoughtful descriptions, and appealing images shown on social platforms give your brand a professional and aesthetic look, increasing users' trust in your store.

How Does Open Graph Work in PrestaShop?

PrestaShop supports Open Graph tags by default, though additional adjustments may be required for optimal tag performance. For instance, when loading a product page on your site, these tags can automatically fill in based on product details such as title, short description, and image. However, to ensure the best display, it’s important to check and maintain the quality of these elements.

Configuring Open Graph Tags in PrestaShop

1. Using Modules: PrestaShop has modules that simplify setting up Open Graph tags. These modules help automatically pull relevant information for product, category, and homepage pages. A popular free module is “Social Sharing Button.” This module adds social media buttons on product pages, automatically adding Open Graph tags for the correct link display when shared.

2. Manual Template Setup: If you have basic coding skills, you can add Open Graph tags directly into PrestaShop templates using corresponding variables. For instance, you can edit the product.tpl template to include Open Graph tags with dynamic data.

Example of adding tags manually:

Example: Using Open Graph in PrestaShop

Let’s say you have a product page on PrestaShop for a “Merino Wool Scarf.” You want it to automatically display the product image, title, and a short description when shared on social media.

Step 1: Ensure Content is Filled Out

On the product page in PrestaShop, you should fill out key details: title, description, and image. This information will be used by the Open Graph tags for social media display.

Step 2: Check or Configure Open Graph Tags

Make sure the Open Graph tags are functioning correctly. If you’re using a module, activate it and adjust settings to pull product data for social networks. If you’re working directly with code, verify the tags in templates.

Result

Now, when someone shares this page on social media, it will show a brief overview of the scarf, with an attractive image and description, improving the chances of attracting new customers.

Open Graph and SEO: Important Notes

Although Open Graph does not directly influence SEO, improved display on social networks contributes to social traffic growth, which can positively affect SEO in the long term. Moreover, when users eagerly share your links, it signals the popularity of your content, which is also valued by search engines.

Using Open Graph is an important step in making your PrestaShop online store look more professional and appealing on social media. Configured Open Graph tags help your pages stand out, strengthening your reputation and increasing interest in your products. This functionality is especially essential if you actively promote your products on social media.

Have you set up Open Graph? Share your results! Let us know in the comments if you’ve noticed any changes in traffic or engagement.