How to Effectively Track Google Algorithm Updates: Tips and Techniques
Google is known for constantly evaluating and updating its algorithms, with potentially hundreds or even thousands of individual changes occurring per year. While the tech giant does confirm some major updates, such as those related to site reputation abuse, core updates like the one in March 2024, and reviews updates like the one in November 2023, there are many updates that Google does not officially confirm. These unconfirmed updates are often only detected through high volatility in the search engine results pages (SERPs).
For example, in May 2024, SEO expert Lily Ray noticed significant changes in traffic to a dozen publisher sites using rank tracking tools. Despite Google rejecting the idea of an algorithm update, the observed volatility around May 7 coincided with Google’s announcement of a reputation abuse update with manual actions, followed by an algorithmic update. While many assumed the websites were impacted by the reputation abuse update, Google’s SearchLiaison team refuted this assumption, leaving the SEO community in a state of confusion.
It is essential for website managers and SEO professionals to act swiftly in response to algorithm updates, whether confirmed or not. Understanding when an update occurs and comprehending its implications are crucial for adjusting strategies to mitigate potential negative impacts and recover quickly if necessary.
### Why You Should Track Google Updates
Having a deep understanding of Google’s algorithms and updates is a fundamental skill in the world of SEO. Occasionally, Google releases updates significant enough to be named (e.g., Florida, Panda, Penguin, RankBrain), which can have a substantial impact on how Google search operates. By analyzing the history of these algorithms, website owners can anticipate future trends and avoid being caught off guard by major updates.
Algorithm changes can primarily affect a website’s organic visibility in Google Search, impacting rankings and potentially introducing new search features that may reduce click-through rates and traffic. By tracking and understanding Google updates, website owners can adapt to sudden performance fluctuations and develop long-term SEO strategies that are effective and future-proof.
Recovering from negative impacts caused by updates requires time and effort. By closely monitoring updates, website owners can pinpoint the reasons behind ranking changes and take appropriate measures to bounce back swiftly.
### Resources For Tracking Google Algorithm Updates
To make tracking Google algorithm updates easier and more efficient, several resources and tools are available to help website owners stay informed and proactive:
#### Google Search Status Dashboard
Google’s Search Status Dashboard is a valuable resource that not only tracks algorithm updates but also indexes and crawling incidents. Website owners can subscribe to updates through the provided RSS feed to stay informed about the latest changes directly from Google.
#### X (Formerly Twitter)
Following Google SearchLiaison on X (formerly Twitter) is a great way to stay updated on algorithm changes and updates. By tagging @searchliaison in your questions, you may receive direct responses from Google representatives. Additionally, following industry experts like Barry Schwartz and Marie Haynes can provide valuable insights into algorithm changes.
#### Search Engine Journal
Search Engine Journal offers a comprehensive history of Google’s algorithm updates from 2003 to the present, including details on each update’s name, rollout date, impact, and confirmation status. Website owners can sign up for newsletters to receive regular updates on major algorithm changes.
While Google discourages the use of third-party tools for tracking algorithm updates, these tools can be valuable sources of information, despite potential inaccuracies. Tools like MozCast, Semrush Sensor, Similarweb, Accuranker, Advanced Web Rankings, CognitiveSEO Signals, and Algoroo provide insights into SERP volatility levels and ranking fluctuations associated with Google updates.
### What To Do After An Algorithm Update
When faced with the negative impacts of algorithm updates on your website, it is crucial to avoid making hasty sitewide changes in panic mode. Instead, focus on checking your website’s technical setup, collecting data, monitoring competitor reactions, consulting credible sources, and making strategic adjustments to your SEO tactics.
It is important to remember that Google’s algorithms are continuously evolving, and what works today may not work tomorrow. By staying informed, proactive, and adaptable, website owners can navigate algorithm updates effectively and maintain a strong online presence.
For more in-depth guidance on recovering from Google updates and optimizing your SEO strategy post-update, consider exploring resources like “How To Recover From A Google Update (A Checklist)” and “Hit By The Core Update? 5 Factors To Consider.”
By leveraging the right resources, tools, and strategies, website owners can effectively track Google algorithm updates and position themselves for success in the ever-changing digital landscape.