Search engine placement test
From SiteRay wiki
| SiteRay Test | |
|---|---|
| First appeared: | Sitescore 1.0 |
| Applies to: | All versions |
| Type: | Individual test |
| Scored: | Sometimes |
What does it do?
Checks the placement of this website in selected search engines for specified terms. High placement is usually one of the ultimate aims of Search Engine Optimisation.
Why is it important?
- Over 80% of website traffic originates from search engines.
- In general, those who find your web site through a search engine are pre-qualified as potential customers (before finding your web site they requested what you are selling).
- Good search engine placement immediately gives visitors some confidence that your website is good (or 'best') for that term.
SiteRay can test your ranking in a large number of search engines across the globe.
Example results
How is it measured?
Each search engine is checked for the list of specified terms. SiteRay looks at the results and counts what position (rank) the currently tested website has, if any. A score is then calculated for each search engine result (from 1-10), and an average for all results is used for the overall score.
If no search terms are specified, SiteRay will test the name of your website by default. Generally, you should specify keywords manually as this will provide more meaningful results.
Technical explanation
The analysis of search engine position is usually relatively straightforward, although in some cases it is not always clear what a ‘#1’ ranking website is. For example: Here the relevant search engine results are shown in red (1, 2 and 3). The blue results are intentionally ignored:
a. Sponsored links. These typically change every time the search is repeated.
b. Google Desktop. Users with this installed will be shown matching results on their own computer first.
c. Indented results. These are extensions of the results above them, and are always for the same website.
d. Sponsored links. These typically change every time the search is repeated. Note these are general pointers, as search engines vary worldwide and each search engine has its own quirks.
SiteRay's underlying principle is: Only include repeatable results that everyone sees, and never include duplicate results.
Common problems
See Search Engine Placement results don't look right.
How to improve this score
See Improving SEO.
How to use this test effectively
This test is an excellent measure of how well a website is performing for desirable keywords. Bear in mind the test is of no value if you’re testing the wrong keywords or search engines. Be honest, and aim for practical terms that people who are interested in your services will genuinely search for. See Improving SEO.
