In 2015, Google introduced a number of algorithm updates that have affected the way that websites rank. One of these updates is called the “EMD” update and it was introduced to prevent websites from ranking solely based on keywords in their URLs. These changes were also designed to make the user experience better, by penalizing websites with too many adverts appearing before the fold. The update affected fewer than 1% of searches globally.
Another major Google algorithm update was the supplemental algorithm. This update introduced Panda facts and other positioning features. Then, in September 2010, Google introduced the “Google Instant” Algorithm Update, which displayed search results as you typed. In addition, the “Canonical Tag Algorithm Update” changed the way websites send signals to the search engine without impacting human viewers.
Another major update was called the “Core Update.” This update affected a number of websites, both good and bad. It is expected to affect at least three sites in 2020. This update is similar to the previous updates, though the changes have slightly different effects. While the May 2020 update was the biggest, the January 2020 update wasn’t felt by many SEO professionals.
Another update targeted e-commerce websites, allowing larger websites to rank higher for more relevant keywords. This update was also introduced during the COVID-19 crisis, forcing Google to react to the changing search patterns of its users. Smaller website owners complained about being pushed to the bottom by larger websites, and Google quickly reassured them that the changes were normal and that their websites would continue to be indexed as before.
As a result of the 2015 google algorithm updates, webmasters should consider adjusting their strategies accordingly. For instance, keyword stuffing and spammy links should be eliminated. Moreover, avoid using stale or outdated content. This may lead to penalty. In addition, webmasters should also consider writing quality content, since it is crucial for SEO.
Google updates its algorithm hundreds of times every year. It is vital that you stay on top of the latest Google changes because failure to respond to changes can put you way behind your competitors. Knowing about the major changes will help you implement best SEO practices, ensure your website’s visibility on Google’s first page and strategize your online marketing strategy accordingly. After all, the only way to remain competitive is to continually learn and adapt to the changes.
Another big update Google made this year is the Helpful content update. This update targets low-quality, unoriginal content. Those writing content primarily for search engine traffic should think twice before publishing these pieces of content. In addition to focusing on content that is useful to your audience, Google has also shifted its attention to mobile sites. The Mobilegeddon update made this a priority for the search engine giant.
Another important update rolled out in August was the Core Update. This update focused on providing a better user experience and rewarded sites that were under-rewarded in the previous year. The results of this update, however, did not solve the ranking drop experienced by many webmasters. The company’s response was to encourage webmasters to continue to create high-quality content.
