Google has released their latest batch of search algorithm updates, the first of 2013, and one of a series aimed at “..improved rankings for a large number of high-quality websites..”. Whilst the exact details of the updates remain secret, they do provide clues by way of the questions we should be asking ourselves when considering what ranking signals Google may be listening to.
We should ask ourselves:
- Would you trust the information presented on this page/site?
- Is this page/site written by an expert or enthusiast who knows the topic well, or is it shallow in nature?
- Does the site have duplicate, overlapping, or redundant pages on the same or similar topics with slightly different keyword variations?
- Would you be comfortable giving your credit card information to this site?
- Does this page have spelling, stylistic, or factual errors?
- Are the topics driven by genuine interests of readers of the site, or does the site generate content by attempting to guess what might rank well in search engines?
- Does the page/site provide original content or information, original reporting, original research, or original analysis?
- Does the page provide substantial value when compared to other pages in search results?
- How much quality control is done on content?
- Does the page describe both sides of a story?
- Is the site a recognized authority on its topic?
- Is the content mass-produced by or outsourced to a large number of creators, or spread across a large network of sites, so that individual pages or sites don’t get as much attention or care?
- Was the page edited well, or does it appear sloppy or hastily produced?
- For a health related query, would you trust information from this site?
- Would you recognize this site as an authoritative source when mentioned by name?
- Does this page provide a complete or comprehensive description of the topic?
- Does this page contain insightful analysis or interesting information that is beyond obvious?
- Is this the sort of page you’d want to bookmark, share with a friend, or recommend?
- Does this page have an excessive amount of ads that distract from or interfere with the main content?
- Would you expect to see this page in a printed magazine, encyclopaedia or book?
- Are the pages short, unsubstantial, or otherwise lacking in helpful specifics?
- Are the pages produced with great care and attention to detail vs. less attention to detail?
- Would users complain when they see pages from this site?
