Scientists’ Perspective on SEO: Navigating the Interplay of Science and Art in the Digital Age
For years, I’ve been married to a scientist, who often shares her critical view on scientific research and its practical applications. This experience has given me a unique insight into the often-overlooked aspects of SEO (Search Engine Optimization), a field that requires a blend of both science and art.
SEO as a Unique Practice in the Digital Age
Unlike traditional scientific research, SEO is a dynamic, evolving practice that requires a keen understanding of search engines’ algorithms, user behavior, and a continuous effort to adapt to new trends. While many advanced SEO experts are highly experienced and internationally recognized, they often choose not to go into writing or speaking on their methods extensively due to confidentiality agreements and competitive reasons. This has led to a gap in the field of SEO where the practical experiences and strategies of these experts are not well-documented.
My wife, who is a scientist herself, has a keen eye for recognizing the value an SEO brings to a brand. She notes that while scientific research is highly influenced by funding sources, SEO, on the other hand, is a complex and multifaceted field that requires a different set of skills and understanding. SEO is not a straightforward application of hard science; it’s more of an art.
The Involvement or Lack Thereof of Scientists in SEO
Over the years, I have worked with numerous scientists who attempted to enter the field of SEO and failed. One notable example was a scientist who conducted a study measuring the pixel count of navigation bars of top 100 websites, believing that this was a key factor in driving mass traffic. This approach, while well-intentioned, was overly simplistic and lacked the depth required to understand the complex interplay between user experience, search engine algorithms, and content relevance.
The Evolution of SEO Methods at Major Tech Giants
Major tech giants like Google have also seen a shift in their approach to hiring scientists. For a long time, Google relied heavily on scientific expertise to refine its search algorithms. However, over the past decade, the company has started to move away from this model, recognizing that a high GPA or even advanced degrees might not be as important as practical experience and an understanding of the digital ecosystem.
With Google’s search algorithm remaining largely a mystery to the public, the true nature of SEO can often remain elusive. While there are studies and research papers available, they are few and far between, and can quickly become outdated as search algorithms evolve. The best SEO practices are built on experience, innovative experimentation, and a deep understanding of what search engines value in terms of content and signals.
The Potential for Measuring SEO Success
Reflecting on my past experiences in the financial industry, where service providers track and publish the performance of financial newsletters, it has always been a dream to have a similar tracking system for SEO experts. By aggregating the organic search traffic growth figures of all clients, we could provide a more transparent and evidence-based approach to understanding the effectiveness of SEO strategies. This would not only benefit clients but also the wider SEO community.
In conclusion, SEO is a field that requires not just a scientific mindset but also an artistic touch. It is a complex and ever-evolving practice that involves understanding the intricacies of search engines, user behavior, and the practical aspects of website optimization. As a scientist’s wife, my wife’s insights have given me a unique perspective on how SEO fits into the broader landscape of digital marketing.