Since the last few years, Google has been focusing on their Panda and Penguin algorithms. They de-indexed all the websites that did not live up to the standards of Google. So people have been trying out various ways to pass the Google test. Are you one of those people who are feeling relaxed to have learnt how these Google algorithms work? Then you might need to think the matter over again. All the SEO strategies that you were following so far might turn upside down as on Google’s 15th birthday, Google has officially revealed its new algorithm namely “Hummingbird”.
What is the Google Hummingbird algorithm?
Do you drive a car? Or at least a bike? Even if you do not do so, you must know that these are run by engines. So, if you find trouble with the fuel, what will you do? You will think of changing the oil filter, or put a new pump in the engine, right? Of course you will not change the entire engine. Similarly, when Google used the Penguin and Panda algorithms, it focused on delivering better results to the searchers when they typed their search in the search box. Whenever they felt that some of this technology was not working in favor of the searchers, they updated that part like the oil filter of your car engine. But now, they have replaced the entire engine with a brand new one.
Why do we need the Hummingbird?
As most of the users, if not all, are using mobile devices and voice technology to search for something, the Hummingbird is very helpful. It understands the meaning of the words and can infer the related results of the search.
What are the changes designed in the new Google Hummingbird algorithm?
See, Google is a search engine. Its purpose is to deliver search results to the searchers as per the key words. Earlier, Google Panda and Penguin algorithms used to filter search results that had those key words inserted in their content. This way, Google could only take out the search results that had exactly those key words.
But Google Hummingbird algorithm can find results that are related to the searches or keywords. Suppose you need to buy a phone from home and you type, “where to buy a phone from home?” Hummingbird will understand your query and come up with results of the places that sell phones and deliver them to homes. If you mention your area, it will specify that as well. Hummingbird is designed to understand the meaning of your search and therefore, even if your keyword is not appropriate, it will come up with results that are related to your search.
Does it mean that content is no more important?
Of course it does not mean so. There is no parallel to fresh and good quality content. But, Hummingbird processes the contents in a better way and of course in a new way so that the results are more accurate and can provide vast information to the searcher as per the requirement. Only time will tell whether this change works in favor of the users or against Google’s reputation.
