Search Engine Optimization: An Introduction

Search Engine Optimization: An Introduction
By Ken Dennis

SEO or Search Engine Optimization is the process of increasing the rank of a website in the search engine results by optimizing the way the site is configured. SEO uses techniques that modify the coding of your site to improve its rank naturally in the search results, as opposed to paying for advertising or a higher position.

How do Search Engines Determine Rank?



Search engines use robots which download a copy of your site (called a spider) and use an algorithm based on the content and coding of your website to determine how well it will perform in the search results. The better your website performs, the higher it will rank and as a result will be viewed more often than results of a lower rank.

What Determines My Website Rank?

There are a large number of factors which contribute to your websites overall success. But truth be told there is no one expert that definitively tell you he knows the secret to getting you ranked high, Search engines change their algorithms several times a year to ensure quality search results and they don't publish a manual on what works and what doesn't.

There are a few things that can be done which are considered "standard" SEO practices, they are such things as increasing the amount of inbound links to your website, with emphasis on links from quality sites. Having META information included in your website coding to give the search engine more information such as a brief description, key words etc. Building a website that is accessible and well linked. Including Title and Alt tags on your images.

There is a lot of different considerations in the SEO process, such as if video content is considered a positive attribute on your website and outbound links to quality websites. But the truth of the matter it's ultimately just important to build a useful website. If you can provide information to the world that truly informative and useful it is one of the best things you can do.

Can Anyone Give Me a Number 1 Ranking?

If you are dealing with an SEO company who guarantees you a high rank, I would be very cautious in dealing with them. No one controls the search engine and can say definitively he can get you that coveted number one position.

It's important to be aware that changes you make today are not instant, it takes time for your rank to change, weeks or months in fact. If you dedicate 90% of your efforts to building good content that you release on a regular basis, and 10% to SEO you will have a successful website in time. The true key is never to give up, just keep working and eventually your efforts will be rewarded.
Ken Dennis is the President of KD Technical Services in Vancouver -- An Information Technology Consulting Firm for Professional Offices and Small Business.

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