Competitive Search Analysis

A competitive search analysis is an important early step when optimizing a website. Competitive search analysis is the process of examining a website's competitive landscape in the search medium. A great source for gathering competitive intelligence is the search engine result pages (SERP's). Utilizing keyword searches, competitors can be easily identified. Often it's helpful to classify them as local, regional, national or international competitors.

Once identified, competitors website's should be studied to determine the keyword phrases for which they are optimizing. A determination of the breadth and depth of optimization strategies they use should also be made. That determination should take into account on-site as well as linking factors. At this time, a judgment as to the extent of optimization which will be required to rank ahead of them should take place.

The results of a competitive search analysis aid in setting optimization strategy including project scope and budget and helps in determining keyword choices.

Digital Road Consulting conducts a competitive search analysis as part of every total search engine optimization. Based on the results and your goals and budget a final strategy and keyword list can be decided upon. We can also conduct a survey of your competitive search landscape without providing a full optimization. After the analysis, we'll provide you with a full report which you can use to determine the direction you want to take in optimizing your website.