Insights

Does anyone remember when Siri first came out?

It’s hard to forget those captivating iPhone commercials; especially when they introduced us to Siri, a virtual assistant that listened to our every verbal command. Back then, it felt like a fresh and somewhat revolutionary approach to getting your questions answered (Celebrity cameos helped too, take this one for example).

Prior to Siri's arrival, the norm was painstakingly typing out every message. The idea of conversing with a device and receiving instant responses was a technological leap forward that left us in awe.

Fast forward to 2011, and Google introduced its own voice search feature. Admittedly, by this point, some of the initial novelty had started to wear off. However, the true transformation was still in the pipeline.

In recent years, we’ve begun to witness significant advancements in voice search technology. No longer were we constrained to shouting out keywords and hoping for the best; instead, we can now articulate more complex inquiries and ideas. This transformation was made possible by the evolution of speech recognition technology in conjunction with AI, taking us beyond the limitations of basic keyword recognition.

Did you know: voice search has become so popular that Google reports 27% of the online population now uses it on their mobile phones.

With the continuous advancements in machine learning, this number is expected to soar even higher. Take, for instance, OpenAI's recent updates utilizing Whisper, which can accurately transcribe and even punctuate your speech, even if it's mumbled or unclear.

As this voice technology continues to improve and become more intuitive, it's only natural that more people will embrace it. If you're a business looking to stay ahead in the digital landscape, optimizing your website for voice search is a strategic move you can't afford to overlook.

But before we delve into the world of website optimization, let's take a moment to explore some of the key benefits of voice search compared to traditional typing.

The three pillars of voice search: speed, engagement, and accessibility

When it comes to recognizing the benefits of voice search, there are a few key points that stand out—speed and convenience, intuitive engagement experiences, and improved accessibility for a diverse user base, including those with impairments or limitations that prevent them from physically typing. Let's dive deeper into each of these aspects:

1. Speed and convenience

Voice search is practically synonymous with speed and convenience. It offers a streamlined and natural way of interacting with technology. Think about it – you can effortlessly translate your thoughts into spoken words.

Compared to the intricate process of typing out a query, the speed at which voice search operates is remarkable. Whether you're on the move or in an environment where typing isn't practical, voice search comes to your rescue.

2. Intuitive engagement experiences

Machine learning and AI have revolutionized the way voice search processes information. It's no longer about isolated keywords; these algorithms are finely tuned to understand the nuances of spoken language. This means that voice search can now handle more complex queries, allowing for a more conversational approach.

For instance, instead of searching for a "chiropractor near me," you can ask, "I threw out my lower back while at Home Depot. Is there a good chiropractor near here that can see me quickly?" These layered inquiries can yield more tailored results, giving businesses an opportunity to shine. Companies that provide detailed information about their services and make it voice search-friendly are poised to excel in this evolving landscape.

3. Accessibility

Over the past few years, lawsuits related to non-ADA compliant web experiences have been on the rise, particularly for small businesses. We have an entire article on this matter here.

Accessibility is a pressing issue, and voice search can bridge the gap. For individuals who may have physical limitations that hinder typing or reading, voice search offers a lifeline. By optimizing your online presence for voice search, you open the door to a demographic you may not have reached before. In essence, being voice search-friendly enables you to connect with individuals who rely solely on audio interfaces.

Voice search benefits for businesses: a sector-by-sector exploration

Determining how businesses benefit from voice search can be nuanced, as the advantages often depend on the industry being served. However, research indicates that several types of businesses are particularly well-positioned to reap the rewards of voice search. Let's delve into these sectors:

Local businesses: restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, hotels, and bars

Local establishments stand to gain significantly from voice search. Imagine you're on the go and want to know if a restaurant is still open. Instead of navigating through a website or using Google My Business to find hours of operation, you can simply ask your device, "How late is this store open today?" This convenience extends to cafes, grocery stores, hotels, bars, and any business with specific hours, making it easier for potential customers to access essential information.

Appointment-based services: doctors' offices, beauty services, and salons

Voice search simplifies the process of booking appointments. Individuals can effortlessly inquire about the next available slot at a doctor's office or the availability of beauty services at a salon. This direct approach to obtaining information is especially valuable in industries that rely on scheduling and appointments.

E-commerce businesses

E-commerce can also thrive through voice search when properly optimized. Shoppers looking for specific products can benefit from voice search, allowing them to find what they need quickly and easily. Businesses that cater to niche markets or offer unique products stand to gain by being easily discoverable through voice queries.

Solution providers: software design, custom software solutions, and digital products

Beyond traditional brick-and-mortar businesses, voice search opens doors for solution providers. In this digital age, custom software solutions and digital products are in high demand. As voice search evolves, users may articulate more complex problems vocally, leading to in-depth conversations that yield tailored solutions. It's no longer about quick yes or no answers; it's about engaging in a dialogue until the user's needs are fully met.

Voice search: revolutionizing SEO strategies

It's clear that voice search has injected a massive dose of complexity into the world of SEO strategies. As we've previously discussed in our post on the emergence and significance of semantic search, the focus has shifted from mere keywords to a deeper understanding of the broader topics that machine learning algorithms extract context from. However, with voice search, we're taking yet another step forward – moving away from ranking for isolated keywords and towards a more conversational approach.

From keywords to conversations

Voice search puts a premium on understanding how people search when they're speaking naturally. It's not about trying to fit in single keywords; it's about grasping the phrases people use in everyday conversation. Sometimes, it involves ditching those keywords that might look great on a webpage but don't work as smoothly in spoken language.

Embracing long-tail keywords

In the realm of voice search, long-tail keywords are your new best friend. Success isn't just about having valuable keywords; it's about having an abundance of them, especially the long-tail varieties. This means zoning in on niche-specific content and providing all the detail your audience needs.

Quality overcomes quantity

Keyword stuffing, where you cram as many keywords as possible into your content, is a thing of the past. Today, it's all about creating content that's as informative and helpful as it can be. Google's web crawlers aren't just checking for keyword density; they're assessing the overall value and utility of your content. Content that stands out for its depth and usefulness is more likely to find favor with voice search users.

Navigating the challenges of voice search optimization

When it comes to optimizing our websites for voice search, it's important to recognize that this path is not without its challenges. Let's take a closer look at some of these hurdles and how to tackle them effectively:

The Hypothetical Situation conundrum

With voice search, the floodgates open to complex discussions and intricate search queries. Unlike the past, where general topical coverage sufficed, now we must anticipate and plan for a myriad of hypothetical situations. It's as if we need to think of these queries before people even ask them. This level of preparation can feel overwhelming.

Complexity amplified

Voice search variations are inherently more complex than their text-based counterparts. People tend to be more specific in their voice queries. The challenge lies in predicting just how specific a search can get and providing relevant content to match.

The competition for limited space

Unlike traditional Google searches, voice search results offer fewer options. This means that competition for the limited space available at the top of search results is fierce. If your content isn't within those top spots, it might not work in your favor.

The need for quick engagement

While some voice search queries may be intricate, many users are on the go and have limited attention spans. Interaction times with your content may be shorter. It's essential to create concise yet engaging content that swiftly meets your clients' or customers' needs.

Tracking success in voice search: Key metrics to watch

Now, as your business takes the plunge into the world of voice search optimization, you might be wondering, "How do we actually measure our progress? What are the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that matter?" These are excellent questions, and fortunately, there are several markers to gauge the effectiveness of your efforts. Let's break down some essential KPIs in a style that's true to the transcript:

Search rankings:

Keeping an eye on your search rankings, especially in voice search results, is paramount. This helps you understand where your website stands in the voice search landscape. For this, tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console are your trusty companions.

Traffic from voice search:

Google Analytics also provides valuable insights into the number of visitors arriving at your website through voice search. If you see an uptick in this number, it's a good sign that your voice search optimization strategies are on the right track. On the flip side, a dip could signal areas that need some fine-tuning or increased competition in your niche.

Google Search Console:

Yes, you read it right—Google Search Console can indeed track voice search queries. This treasure trove of data allows you to dive into the world of detailed, long-tail keyword phrases that users use to discover your site.

Engagement metrics from voice users:

But don't just stop at traffic numbers. High bounce rates or a lack of interaction on your site could indicate that visitors from voice search aren't finding what they need. This calls for a closer look at your page experience and practices to ensure a more user-friendly journey.

Keyword ranking tools:

When it comes to fine-tuning your keywords for voice search, external tools like SEMrush or Moz are your secret weapons. They not only help you refine your keyword strategy but also offer insights into how you stack up against your rivals. Unearthing high-impact long-tail keywords can give you a competitive edge.

Conversion rates:

Finally, measuring conversion rates for voice search users is a must. Are these users taking desired actions, like making purchases, filling out forms, or reaching out to your business? Examining conversion rates can reveal deeper insights into the true impact of your voice search optimization endeavors.

In essence, evaluating the success of your voice search optimization journey requires a holistic look at various KPIs. By keeping an eye on search rankings, traffic, engagement, and conversion rates, you can paint a vivid picture of how well your website is performing.

Let Magnet elevate your voice search game

At Magnet, we've been closely following the evolution of voice search, and we understand its ongoing growth potential. We recognize that voice search presents an opportunity for businesses to tap into previously inaccessible or undervalued demographics.

With our team of SEO Wizards, we have the expertise to position your website at the forefront of the AI-assisted search landscape. We'll help you prepare for the complexities of AI-driven voice search, ensuring that your content is prominently featured ahead of your competitors.

Furthermore, our meticulous research allows us to identify general topics, trends, and long voice search queries, enabling us to tailor your content and services to align perfectly with the queries people make through voice search.

If you're ready to make your voice heard, contact us at Magnet today, and we'll set you on the path to voice search success.

‍

Should you hire a freelancer or an agency for your web design project?

Hiring a web designer is like choosing a chef. You could go for that newbie with a food truck (sometimes with surprising and delightful outcomes) or you could opt for a team of skilled chefs from a five-star restaurant, with each member having their own specialty. 

Your choice depends on what kind of night you want to have, how much money is in your pocket, and what exactly is at stake. 

So what is the difference between a freelance web designer and a web design agency?

When you hire a web design agency over a freelancer, you typically get more accountability, more people working on your project, and a quicker turn-around time - usually at a higher cost.

But it’s also more complicated than that. Let’s take a closer look.

When it comes to web design, more experience is undoubtedly better. So who takes the cake on this one: freelancer or web design agency?

Freelancer

While some individuals come equipped with a wealth of experience, they often have a singular approach. So whatever technology an individual web designer is most comfortable with is likely what they’ll be selling to you, even if it’s not the best solution for you. Getting good at something takes time, and staying cutting edge while you're trying to make a living isn’t easy. You can’t reasonably expect one person to know every option there is out there … and which option will work best … and for whom. 

Part of being a freelancer is making things work, even when they don’t (or shouldn't). Creating a new website requires design, coding, copywriting, media procurement, knowledge of SEO and a lot of other skills. Would you trust your gardener to fix a blown fuse in your furnace? Probably not. And you probably shouldn’t have a web designer do it either. 

Agency

Working with a web design agency, you get the benefits of a collective pool of experience. When a web agency is full-service - meaning they do everything from the design, development, copywriting, SEO and post-production digital marketing - this can be especially handy.

Imagine a team that's faced every web challenge imaginable, from ecommerce integration to the fickleness of ever-evolving SEO standards. In a successful agency, each person is mindful of the effects that any decision may have on the part they play - and they are able to address problems long before they even arise. 

Because you have individuals within an agency focusing on what they’re good at, as opposed to jumping between half-developed skills, the work also gets done more efficiently. Even those hard-to-solve problems become commonplace for an expert, without the need to deepdive (or often belly flop) into time-consuming research that a less experienced person would need to do to solve the same problem.

So who wins this round?

When it comes to having well-rounded, valuable experience, an individual freelancer just can’t touch the team approach that a web design agency is able to offer. 

The creative minds: one vs. many

Love garlic? Dumb question - who doesn't.

If garlic were the only spice you ever put in recipes, you might think it was amazing all on its own (and it is). But what happens when you mix other flavors with it? Salt, pepper, a squeeze of lemon, some red chili flakes…

Now we’re cooking.

Your freelancer? They’re garlic. 

Even if you really love working with garlic, er ... I mean, a freelancer … diverse perspectives lead to richer ideas and more dynamic flavors. 

There are just some things garlic can never be on its own, no matter how hard it tries.

Okay, enough about the garlic, let’s get back to the question: When it comes to creativity, which is better: a freelancer or a web design agency?

Freelancer creativity

While working solo can lead to deeper levels of concentration and efficiency, it also means that the only person to bounce ideas off of is often yourself. That approach doesn’t always lead to the best ideas (although it sometimes can), and it’s easy for things to be missed.

When the only person pushing you to learn more or break out of the ordinary is yourself, the likelihood of either of those things happening goes way down.

Agency creativity

That’s because working in a team leads to fancy sounding terms like “cross-functional knowledge sharing” and “collaborative creativity”. Essentially, different team members bring expertise from different perspectives which often leads to better outcomes. 

With collaboration, you also have a natural system of checks and balances where team members push each other to think about problems differently. It’s easy to end up in a creative slump when you’re on your own but when you’re working with others, un-slumping yourself is more easily done. Because when everyone is working toward the best possible shared outcome (and there is a little bit of healthy competition), everyone is pushed to do better. 

A real world example:

We work with a franchise company that does home maintenance. There are around 100 locations across the United States, and each franchise owner needs the ability to access their own area of the website, update content, create advertisements and monitor traffic. Our developers and SEO experts worked together to solve this problem, which called for adding a custom field in the CMS, adding various levels of account management, and setting up a complicated system of Google Tag Manager accounts with varying levels of permissions. Without this day one collaboration, the solution would have been less optimal, and would have required time to go back and make costly corrections later in the process.

The potential fallback of more than one creative mind? Wasting time. We’ve all encountered that one person - the CDO (Chief Distraction Officer) - whose only job may be to disrupt everyone around them. For collaboration to work well, it needs to be able to thrive, but it can’t be without limits. 

Is there a sure-fire way to know for sure if an agency you’re going to hire gets this balance right? Well, it might not matter. Afterall, unless you're paying by the hour (which is typically not the case with an agency) the time they’re wasting is on their dime, not yours.

Which leads us to the next point.

Cost and value

While it's tempting to chase bargains, you’ve got to consider long-term ROI. A 2019 study by GoGulf stated that 75% of consumers judge a company's credibility based on its website's design. That’s a lot of potential business to lose if people look at your website and think “yikes” because all that yikes is going to get passed along to you.

This one is probably pretty obvious, but I’m going to ask it anyway. When it comes to value, is a freelance web designer better or a web design agency?

Freelancer value

It’s no surprise that a freelance web designer is probably going to be cheaper than hiring a team of people. 

At least at first. 

Because, as my grandma used to say, "Sometimes cheap becomes expensive.” 

And “cost” and “value” are two very different things. Cutting costs might mean sacrificing integral aspects like SEO or user experience. Unless you have found yourself a true diamond, it’s extremely unlikely that your web designer is going to do everything right. 

Also, keep in mind that really good freelancers are usually:

A.) very busy 

B.) not cheap (because why would they be?)

When it comes to hourly rate, numbers are across the board. A low-end is around $30 an hour up to around $80, and can easily be $200 or more an hour if you get into a freelancer who is in high demand or also does development. You’re also likely to have to juggle language barriers, and time zone differences, and assurances like insurance and warranties are few and far between. You’ll likely be dealing with a lot of plugins and very little customization.

If someone is promising you a 10-page website for $1,000, then how much is their time really worth to them? 

Of course, if you’re bootstrapping and making your business work, it’s better to have some sort of website than none at all. 

Keep in mind, as with anything else, you get what you pay for. If you have a unicycle budget, don’t expect to have a Lamborghini website. 

Agency value

Initially pricier, but think of it as an investment. With a broader resource pool and more expertise, you're getting comprehensive value from a team of experts, as opposed to a patchwork of competence from a Jack-of-all-trades. 

At Magnet, most of our website projects start around $20,000. 

Some people gasp at that number, but that website will be weeks or months of strategy, custom design, highly performant and secure development, carefully curated content, plus the things that actually make your website generate revenue, like SEO, rich snippets, and conversion-oriented copy (just to name a few). We carefully consider things like security,  accessibility (internal link to blog), user experience, responsiveness, color theory, customer tracking and funnels, and a lot of other things that one person simply can’t get right on their own.

Keeping up with technology

The web design world is like a tech runway – what’s in vogue today may be passé tomorrow. Beyond that, whoever is doing the work needs to have enough experience and knowledge to embrace the right technology without adopting every shiny new piece of technology that comes their way. 

Why? Because ultimately, a lot of those will fail. If your website is built with a failing solution, it’s going to cost you big bucks to fix down the line. 

So, when it comes to technology, who pulls ahead: Freelance web developers or web development agencies?

Web design freelancer

9.9 times out of 10 a freelance web designer is going to recommend the solution that they know the best. 

But is that always a bad thing? 

Not necessarily.

Sometimes you know what technology you want to use for your project. When that's the case, hiring a freelancer with the exact set of skills that you're looking for can be a great thing. Someone who has worked in a particular framework for their entire career is more likely to be proficient in that technology. 

However, without the same system of checks and balances that exist in an agency environment where there are multiple people with input, you might end up hiring someone who uses frameworks, plugins and other tools that are out-dated or no longer well-supported.

Web design agency

Agencies tend to have more people working together in collaboration on projects. One of the great advantages to this is the forward momentum that's created as team members share interests and information about what's happening and relevant in their world. 

It's an unavoidable part of being in a modern agency.

On our team, we have a library of resources we share with each other in Notion, with things like inspiration, policies, best practices and favorite tools nestled wonderfully inside of corresponding topics. We share ideas on Slack, brainstorm during meetings and challenge one another on a very regular basis. 

Warranties and insurance

Warranties and insurance in web design? Yes, it's a thing! Let’s start by taking a closer look at what they actually mean.

What is a website warranty in web design?

Warranties are like promises that say, "Hey, we've got your back if this thing breaks down." While warranties offer peace of mind for specific products and their potential defects, terms and conditions apply. In other words: they're limited. They have a set duration and often come with a list of conditions longer than a toddler's Christmas wish list. 

Why do I need insurance when hiring a web designer?

Insurance is broader than a warranty, covering a range of mishaps from hacks to disgruntled employees to accidents, and those "Oops, I did it again" moments. It's designed to shield both you and the web designer(s) you work with from major costs associated with problems.

So when it comes to your protection, who does it better: freelancers or web design agencies?

Freelancers

While freelancers can offer personalized tweaks and quick fixes, their warranties often come with expiration dates. And insurance? Well, let's just say it might be more of a handshake agreement than a written contract. If your website gets hacked or faces downtime, you might just get a "Whoops, my bad!" and a promise to do better next time.

It’s also likely you’ll run into an issue that your freelancer doesn’t know how to fix. 

When that happens, it could mean downtime, expensive and stressful last minute contractors to fix the issue, and a lot of other potential headaches.

Web design agency

It’s probably not a big shock that agencies are more likely to offer warranties and insurance than freelancers. Higher cost of services means they are able to cover this sort of thing to protect the business. 

Agencies often offer warranties in the form of post-launch support and monthly service retainers to ensure everything is working the way it should. They also typically have insurance to handle any untoward incidents or potential data breaches.

And what if your website goes down in the middle of the night?

An agency is much more likely to have around the clock monitoring and support for downtime and other issues than someone working on their own. They are also more likely to have immediate access to whatever people or tools are needed to fix it.

An eCommerce site that goes down for a few hours could mean many thousands of dollars of lost revenue. Backed by insurance, an agency can not only fix the problem faster, but they can also provide financial compensation for any potential losses.

So what kind of insurance should a web agency have?

Basic liability insurance

This covers things like bodily injury, property damage and all of the general terms you’d expect in an insurance policy. It comes into play mostly for things like copyright infringement and reputational harm (like slander) in terms of how it may affect your business. If your web designer (be it freelancer or an agency) wrongfully uses a copyrighted image, for example, as opposed to your company shelling out the money for a lawsuit, your web designer’s basic liability insurance should cover the claim.

Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance

E&O insurance, often referred to as professional liability insurance, is specifically designed to protect businesses against claims of negligence, mistakes, or failures in the services they provide. When working with a web design/development agency, this could mean that you are compensated for claims that involve things like a website malfunction, coding errors, or missed deadlines that result in financial loss. 

You’re of course able to make a legal claim against a company that doesn’t have insurance, but actually receiving payment is a whole different story.

Design: more than just a pretty face

Good design isn't just aesthetic; it affects user trust. This 2021 report indicates that 94% of first impressions on a website relate to its design.

Freelancer design

When it comes to Working with a freelancer for web design, you're likely to get a similar aesthetic across all types of sites that they create. This can be helpful if you find a designer whose style you really like. If all goes well, your design will end up close to what you were hoping for.

However, this can get you in trouble when your designer isn't development savvy. Oftentimes you will see portfolios from web designers with images created in Photoshop or similar graphic design tools. They may be beautiful, but a lot of times they aren't real functional websites. 

Painting a pretty picture is one thing, but making that an interactive web experience is something else entirely.

Web agency design

Agencies usually have dedicated designers who know the importance of making a site that's both gorgeous and functional. Because there is likely more than one designer involved in the process, it can also mean a greater aptitude for targeting your particular audience. 

For example, a law firm that focuses on creating wills for high-income clients over the age of 60 would likely have a very different design aesthetic to an environmentally friendly handbag company. Understanding design principles in general is important, but it's also equally - if not more important - to design in a way that resonates with your particular audience.

Whether you hire a web design freelancer or a web design agency, make sure that, as part of the design process, you are offered temperature checks: things like mood boarding and low-fidelity prototypes to ensure that your vision for the site and your designer’s vision are in alignment. 

It’s all about the user - user experience (UX)

A well-structured site ensures that your users know how to move through your website without any friction and are able to accomplish what they went there to do. 

And that is really important because websites that confuse people don’t convert. 

Want proof?

‍A study by Forrester Research found that websites that are well designed for user-experience can lead to a 400% increase in conversion rates.

400%! 

Insanity.

So who takes the cake when it comes to the user?

Freelance web designer 

The internet is rich with beautifully designed websites (or website concepts) from freelancers on sites like Dribbble and Behance. They may win awards, but they don’t usually win customers. All those high-end, flashy, artistic sites are usually a bigger win for the designer’s ego than for their clients.

Keep in mind that just because a website is beautiful, it doesn’t mean it’s well designed.

People want predictability when it comes to web design. That doesn’t mean boring - but it means that when they interact with an element on your website, like a button for instance, it does what they expect it to.

‍

Web agency

Now, just because you work with an agency over a freelancer doesn’t guarantee you a better user experience. With either path, you need to ensure that UX isn't an afterthought - it should be one of the guiding principles behind every design decision.

The difference is, with an agency, you can expect that someone on the team has education (and experience) in user experience research and implementation. 

If no one does? My advice: look elsewhere. 

Why? Because UX is one of the fundamental principles of effective web design (and arguably the most important for conversions), so if this isn’t addressed very early on in the conversation with whoever it is you’re hiring, they don’t care enough about it. 

SEO: being the needle AND the haystack

If your website isn’t search engine optimized, you might as well be yelling into the wind to promote your business. That’s because, according to research done by Backlink.io, nearly 70% of all clicks on Google search go to the top 5 results, and only .63% of searchers click on something from the second page.

So who does SEO better? Freelancers or Agencies?

The answer might be neither.

Freelancer SEO

Even if you hit the web designer lottery and found a freelancer who not only has a great design aesthetic, but also a deep knowledge of user experience and extensive SEO experience, there is no way a single person can keep up with optimizing your site unless it is the only website they are working on.

I like to describe SEO as a process, a lot like getting in shape. If you bust your butt working out and finally achieve the body of your dreams, you don’t get to stop. Unless you keep up the hard work, that muffin top will come creeping back, and before you know it, you’ll have to buy new jeans. 

In SEO, that “muffin top” is the second page of Google results. No one wants to be there.

Now, if you’re thinking, “No big deal, I can hire someone else to manage my SEO,” keep in mind that your designer, developer, content creators and SEO expert all need to communicate with each other in order to make an effective website. A lot of SEO fixes involve content changes or technical resolutions that only a developer can handle.

Getting a team of people to work together who don’t know each other, may have different opinions about a solution, be unresponsive for long periods of time, or be in different time zones can be a nightmare. 

Web agency SEO

Again, when we talk about a web design agency they're not all created equally. If you hire a full service digital agency, SEO should be part of the package. In an ideal setup, your agency will have a combination of designers, developers, content creators, and UX and SEO experts who are used to working with each other, sharing feedback and insights, and getting things done quickly.

And because SEO is an ever-changing industry and set of skills, a team setup once again proves to be more powerful than one person working on their own, for all the reasons we mentioned before. 

ADA compliance

One internet, under Google, with accessibility and justice for all

Ensuring your website is accessible to all, including those with disabilities, is not just good practice – it's often the law. In 2022, over 4,200 lawsuits were filed over website accessibility. You can read all about that in our recent blog post, Access Granted: Unraveling the Mysteries of Website Accessibility in 2023. 

So, is there much of a difference between freelancers and agencies when it comes to website accessibility?

Freelancer ADA compliance

It’s highly unlikely that any one person you hire to create a website on your behalf is going to know the ins and outs of website accessibility. The WCAG (Website Content Accessibility Guidelines) is the guide on website accessibility, and it is over 80 pages in length, and was updated as recently as August of 2023. That is a lot of information for one person to understand and keep up with.

While some accessibility guidelines are easy fixes, like adding captions to audio videos, others require both design and development forethought. Meaning if you have a website designed by someone who doesn’t know any better, you could be in big (costly) trouble.

Web design agency ADA compliance

An agency is no exception here … unless they are. 

A lot of agencies simply don’t bother when it comes to accessibility, and a lot more will say things like “we consider accessibility throughout the process” or “ADA compliance is very important to us”.

What’s that worth to you?

A hill of beans.

And I don’t mean the kind that grows magic beanstalks.

If compliance isn’t something you really care about, it should be. More than ¾ companies sued for lack of accessibility in 2023 were businesses under the $25 million mark. That’s largely because the big guys have 1.) already been sued and 2.) have the budgets and the resources to be compliant (or deal with the lawsuits). It’s the smaller companies that need to watch out now.

So how do you ensure your website doesn’t meet this terrible fate?

Before hiring an agency, make sure they don’t simply care about accessibility, but that they can actually ensure your website meets the standard that you set out for. A good agency will know the difference between level A and level AAA compliance and have the know-how to guide you on the right path.

Conclusion: the web-solution spectrum

Should you hire a freelance web designer or a web design agency?

Much like choosing between a Michelin-star restaurant and a talented home cook, the decision boils down to your needs, budget, and desired outcomes. 

At the end of the day, if you don’t have a big budget and are willing to do some of the work yourself, a freelancer will provide you with the basics needed to give your customers a place to go, at the very least. 

Even an okay website is better than no website at all.

So if all you can afford is okay - start there. Hire the people you can afford to do the things you can’t do, and bootstrap what you need to. After all, you can always spruce things up later. But consider your budget carefully. Your website might just be the most important investment you make in your company. 

However, if you’re a company that depends on ecommerce sales or could benefit from online lead generation, don’t skimp on your website. When done right, a website has the power to be your best salesperson and biggest brand advocate. 

And when it comes to doing things the right way for your site, consider all the things mentioned above. Missing one of those areas is enough to throw an entire website off balance, and in effect, an entire company. 

Is it worth it to hire a web designer?

It depends on the project, your business and the designer. If you have a small business and don’t require much in terms of a website, solutions like Squarespace and Wix might be all you need. If you go this route here are a few recommendations:

1. Only embark on this journey if you are somewhat tech-savvy 
2. Use the provided templates
3. Learn about SEO and make sure you do those things
4. Ensure your site works good and looks good on mobile
5. Spend time watching tutorials on setting up your site properly 

When is it better to hire a freelance web designer vs an agency?

If you have a small company and not much budget, hiring a freelancer might be your best (or only) option. It’s also important to keep in mind that although you’ll spend less on a freelancer, you’ll likely only be getting some of the very important things you need from your website. 

Without crucial content creation, UX, SEO and all of the other things mentioned above, there really isn’t much point in having a website unless you don’t really care if people visit it (and then why bother in the first place?).

What should I look for when hiring a web design agency?

When choosing an agency there are a few things you should look for and ask before hiring them. 

1. Check out their portfolio. A successful agency should have examples of websites they have created. Make sure you like their style.
2. Process. A web design project should not be a free-for-all. You should know exactly what to expect during each phase of your project.
3. Know what they offer (and what they don’t). Design, development, UX, accessibility, content creation, SEO, SEM, SMM, photography, support … the list goes on. See what the agency offers and what you’ll have to outsource yourself.
4. Ask about security and downtime. A seasoned agency should not only have a stance on building things in a secure manner, they should also have policies in place, should your site ever go down unexpectedly. 
5. Understand the technology they’re offering. There is essentially a limitless combination of technologies that can be put together to create a website or software. During the proposal phase, ask the agency to walk you through the technology: the costs, longevity, popularity, availability of support, how much experience they have with it, what other companies are using it and any potential downfalls.
6. Ask about warranties and insurance. Make sure they are covered if any issues come up so that you’re covered too.
7. Does the timeline work for you? Make sure that whatever timeline is being proposed works for you. Ask how the agency handles situations where deliverables are late.
8. Ask for reviews. Most agencies will have reviews listed on their website from previous customers. Do a bit of digging to make sure those are real people, and look for external sources like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
9. A budget that works for you. Don’t be afraid to ask about the price. A simple site might only cost a few thousand dollars whereas some software costs many millions. At Magnet, we will often do release iterations so we can get a site live and add features down the line once a revenue stream is better established. 
10. Understand payment terms. Know when payment is expected and what happens if deadlines are not met or the project stalls out halfway through.
11. Make sure you jive. You’ll likely spend quite a bit of time with the people in a web agency. Make sure you get along, you like them and there are no weird gut feelings going on. 

How do I choose a website design agency?

Look for an agency that offers everything you want. Don’t be afraid to speak to more than one agency about a project and get multiple quotes. Check reviews. Do a little digging on people in the company to make sure they are real and decent. If a mugshot is the first thing you see when you Google an agency owner, you might want to look around - just saying. 

Look for professionalism and a design aesthetic you like. Have a conversation with the people you’ll be working with. Make sure you like them.

In this article

• What is website accessibility?
• The ADA
• Famous website accessibility lawsuits
• WCAG
• Four Principles of Accessible Design
• Options for ensuring accessibility
• How web agencies may (or may not) help with your website’s accessibility

Before we dive into what website accessibility is, a bit of history… 

Before the American with Disabilities Act was signed into law in 1990, things like wheelchair ramps, auditory traffic signals and braille signage were essentially unheard of, causing mobility challenges for as much as 5% of the total population at that time. 

While a lot has changed a lot in the last 30+ years, many still feel that accessibility in America is far from perfect. In addition to the real-world challenges like New York subway elevators always being out of commission and the high number of wheelchair ramps that lead to locked doors, people with disabilities have a new hurdle to overcome: the internet.

So what is website accessibility?

Website accessibility is the inclusive practice of removing barriers that prevent interaction with, or access to, websites by people with disabilities. When implemented properly, online accessibility ensures that all users have equal access to information and functionality of a website or app. 

When it comes to website accessibility, there are two acronyms that reign supreme: 

ADA and WCAG.

The first acronym: ADA - American with Disabilities Act

In 2022, the Department of Justice updated their formal position on website accessibility, stating that the American with Disabilities Act applies to state and local governments and all businesses that are open to the public, including those offered on the web.

While our dear DoJ (Department of Justice) doesn’t give us a specific set of guidelines to follow, the general message is clear: they’re sticking to the same standards of nondiscrimination and effective communication that the ADA originally set out to address. 

And these guys are willing to put your money where their mouth is. 

The Department of Justice in accordance with the ADA

In cases involving Miami University in Ohio, Rite Aid Corporation and H&R Block, the DoJ sided with plaintiffs in each case, forcing the organizations to update their website accessibility, pay penalties to the plaintiffs, and undergo regular reporting to ensure their ongoing compliance. 

What could have been a few thousand dollars at the onset of the sites’ creation, ended up costing lawyers fees, plaintiff payouts, hasty compliance updates, and ongoing reporting costs for each of those organizations.  

Lawsuits over website accessibility

Winn-Dixie

Back in 2017, in what has become one of the most well-known (and drawn out) website accessibility lawsuits, Juan Carlos Gil sued Winn-Dixie over claims that website information, pharmacy and features were inaccessible to blind and visually impaired customers. The court ruled in favor of the plaintiff, and after years of appeals, Winn-Dixie finally backed down in 2022.

Nike 

Nike is no stranger to website accessibility lawsuits. The most prominent case was in 2017 when Maria Mendizabal filed a class action lawsuit against Nike, claiming that Nike.com and Converse.com failed to give access to blind and visually impaired users.

As recently as June of 2023, Sumaya Hussein brought a lawsuit against Nike, alleging that the ecommerce website did not provide “legally blind users a full and equal experience” on the website. 

And these are just a few examples. Target, Amazon, and even the queen herself (Beyonce, of course), as well as countless other brands you can’t help but have a relationship with have also been sued on the basis of unequal access under the ADA. For some of them, it cost them big. 

H&R Block

• Date July 2014
• Reason for lawsuit: Lack of website accessibility for visually impaired
• Payout: $100,000

Miami University

• Date: October 2016
• Reason for lawsuit: Lack of website accessibility for visually impaired
• Payout: $25,000

Netflix

• Date: 2012-2014
• Reason for lawsuit: Lack of close captioning for deaf viewers
• Payout: $755,000 to the National Association of the Deaf

Target

• Date: 2005-2006
• Reason for lawsuit: Lack of website accessibility for visually impaired
• Payout $6 million

‍

Harvard University

• Date: 2015
• Reason for lawsuit: Not providing appropriately accurate and comprehensive captioning for online course materials (video and audio files)
• Payout $1.6 million

A Look at the Numbers

The ecommerce industry has been hit the hardest by website accessibility lawsuits. An astonishing 81% of the top 500 US ecommerce retailers have received ADA-based website accessibility lawsuits in the past 5 years. 

But chances are, if you’re reading this, you aren’t Andy Jassy, John Donahoe or some other multi-billion dollar CEO. You’re just a little guy - no one cares about your website, right?

As it turns out, the majority of companies that received lawsuits in the last several years have an annual revenue under $20 million. 

Part of that is because a lot of the big guys have already been sued and have accessibility plans in place. So naturally, smaller businesses are targeted next.

How many lawsuits are we talking about here? Well, more than a few, and it’s growing every year.

In 2022, UsableNet discovered more than 4,000 website accessibility lawsuits had been filed, and they’re expecting this year’s number to be even higher. 

Now, I know what you’re thinking. I’ve seen those annoying little floating widgets - I’ll just get myself one of those and checkmate - I’m in the clear.

I hate to be the one to tell you this, but…. They’re being sued too. As much as 10% of the lawsuits so far in 2023 have had accessibility widgets or overlay features on their websites. 

So if the world’s biggest brands can’t tackle website accessibility, do the rest of us even have a chance?

Fear not. For there is hope.

Lets talk about that second acronym now: WCAG

W3C/WAIWCAG/WTF

First, let’s figure out what each of these are.

W3C - World Wide Web Consortium

These fine folks help develop standards and guidelines to help everyone build a World Wide Web based on the principles of accessibility, internationalization, privacy and security. You can think of them as the Founding Fathers of a fair internet.

WAI - Web Accessibility Initiative

An initiative of the W3C which seeks to develop, support, coordinate and promote web accessibility standards around the world. If W3C is the Founding Fathers, WAI is the United States of America that they set out to create.

WCAG - Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 

The international standard for web accessibility, developed by the W3C as part of the WAI, which explains how to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities​. This is essentially the sacred text of web accessibility, or to stick with the previous analogy, our glorious Constitution of the United Web of the World. 

WTF - Take a breath, we’re just getting started, I’m afraid. 

First thing to note, there are currently (almost) three versions of the WCAG. WCAG 2.0 was published in 2008, WCAG 2.1 was published in 2018, and we have all been biting our nails in anticipation of the release of WCAG 2.2 which is supposed to be coming out any day now (August 18, 2023 is the official date). The standards are updated with each, so you only need to worry about the latest version.

In order to master WCAG, you’ve got to ensure the Four Principles of Accessibility are met, support the guidelines for each, and decide which level of success criteria you are trying to hit. 

POUR over the Four Principles of Accessible Design

1. Perceivable: Making web content available to all users, regardless of disabilities.
2. Operable: Ensuring all functionality is accessible via a keyboard and usable by different assistive technologies.
3. Understandable: Creating content that is easy to navigate and comprehend.
4. Robust: Ensuring that web content can be reliably interpreted by a wide range of user agents, including assistive technologies.

There are three standard levels the WCAG uses: A, AA, AAA, which are in order from the lowest acceptable level of compliance (A) to the highest, strictest standard (AAA).

No B’s allowed when it comes to inclusion, I’m afraid. 

By far, the easiest way to make sure you meet these requirements is to go through the WCAG Quick Reference Guide, and check the ones that apply to you. We’ve also included a very rough roundup of the items below, for quick scanning. 

Very rough round-up for quick scanning

Here is a very brief rundown (keeping in mind that the WCAG 2.1 guide is more than 80 pages in length and this is much, much less than that):

1. Perceivable

• Text alternatives for all non-text content - like a meta tag for a picture
• Time-based media alternatives - things like captions or audio only for videos and similar media
• Information must be adaptable - able to be simplified for situations such as screen readers
• Content must be distinguishable - enough contrast, use of color, ability to resize text, etc.

2. Operable

• Keyboard accessible - everything must be accessible through a keyboard
• Enough time - users should have control over timed media - adjusting speed, pause, stop, hide, etc. 
• Don’t cause seizures - don’t have flashing objects or images
• Navigable - help users navigate, find content and know where they are: menus, breadcrumbs, page titles, headings/labels, etc. 
• Input modalities - account for input options beyond keyboards

3. Understandable

• Readable - make text content readable and understandable, allowing language selection, a way to define unusual or difficult words, explain abbreviations, and think about reading level and pronunciation assistance
• Predictable - web pages should appear and operate in ways that are predictable and consistent 
• Input assistance - if an error is made in a field, help show users how to correct the error. Provide labels and instructions that are easy to understand.

4. Robust 

• Compatibility - content should work with current and account for future technologies, including assistive technologies

Now that You Know What Website Accessibility Is, How Do You Implement It? 

If all of this feels overwhelming, you aren’t alone, and even if you have an older site, you still have a few options that don’t require you to scratch everything and start over. 

Option 1 $$$: Hire an accessibility person/people for your digital team.

For large companies and those who run their own large ecommerce stores, it might make sense to hire experts who specialize in accessibility and can ensure that all content is accessible on a regular basis, as well as keep track of emerging technologies and standards. 

Option 2 $$: Use a paid accessibility audit company. 

This is a good middle of the road option if you want to pay a company to offload some of the responsibility to. In 2023, most of these services are powered by AI and there are real humans to speak to if you need help. Just keep in mind that even with this type of service, you are still held accountable if someone brings a lawsuit to you. Here are just a few of the many popular options:

• accessiBe.com claims to be the largest in the market. They have plans ranging from $490 - $3,490/year + enterprise solutions. They offer a free website accessibility checker called accessScan, which was the most comprehensive automated tool of those I tested. It gives a decent overview of issues and potential issues on your website, and even tells you how the errors found will affect people with various disabilities.  
• Audioeye.com is another widely used option, and you’ve likely experienced their accessibility widget while browsing the web. Their prices range from $49 to $99/month with enterprise packages available as well. They also offer a free accessibility checker, which isn’t quite as robust as the one from accessiBe, but still a helpful tool, overall. 
• Accessibilitychecker.org is another option that offers a free website accessibility checker. I found this one to be the least intelligent of the free scanners tested. Their prices for accessibility scans start at $99 and go up to $299/month, and they offer enterprise pricing.  

Option 3 $: DIY your accessibility. 

This is only a good option if you are a web person, ideally who has completed the certifications offered by W3C and understand how to implement the level of compliance you’re looking for. 

Option 4 $?: Do nothing.

Might be the cheapest option in the short term, but in the long run, who knows. 0/10. Do not recommend. 

But I hired a web agency to design my website, so it’s accessible, right?

Not unless you’ve explicitly agreed to it. Be careful of wording like “we optimize your site to be accessible” or “we follow standards set by the ADA”. That doesn’t pass liability to them, and could actually mean nothing. If you’re having your site designed in the near future, make sure that whoever you hire is willing to agree to a minimum of WCAG Level A compliance. Anything less could get you in trouble with your users. 

Okay, but surely THEN I’M PROTECTED?

Well, no. Because the thing about websites is they are constantly growing and changing. So, even if a web agency agrees to give a Level A compliant site, if you write a blog and don’t add a meta description to an image, your site is technically no longer compliant. 

The best way around this?

Ensure that everyone on your team who is responsible for contributing to your website in any way follows a checklist each time they make a change to ensure that your site stays compliant. 

It’s kind of like hygienic care for your website. If you get your teeth cleaned once a year, it helps keep things functional, but if you aren’t brushing and flossing everyday, things are going to end up falling apart. Similarly, if you don’t keep up with your site’s accessibility as you go, things will start stacking up against you, making the work more cumbersome in the long run. 

Planning on redesigning your website in the near future?

That’s the perfect time to update your website’s accessibility. And if you’re shopping around for a web agency, be sure to ask them how they not only design for accessibility, but what WCAG standards they are able to comply with, and how they can help ensure your site is accessible for the long-run.

An experienced, professional web agency will have no problem creating a site that is compliant and helping you keep it that way.

For example at Magnet, we not only utilize AI-powered website accessibility scanners like those mentioned above before launching every project, but we also have user guides, ongoing site checks and accessibility training available for our clients to help protect them into the future.

If you’re worried that your site might not be lawsuit-clad, get in touch with us. We’d love to help get your website to a level of compliance that works for you, all the way up to Level AAA. We can also help out with your next digital project, whatever it may be.

Contact us to get started!

You might hearing a new term more and more these days, “Semantic Search.” However, this concept is not just a buzzword, but a significant shift in how search engines understand and respond to user queries. This shift is poised to deliver search results that are more accurate, relevant, and personalized than ever before.

Semantic search is a technology that's reshaping the future of web browsing, and it's crucial for anyone involved in digital marketing or web design to understand it. At Magnet, we are the experts in staying ahead of the latest trends and technologies. Our team is here to confidently guide you through this transition.

Today, we will explore the world of semantic search. We will cover what it is, how it works, and why it is crucial for the future of web browsing. Additionally, we will compare it to traditional keyword-based search and discuss the role of Natural Language Processing (NLP) in semantic search. Let's begin!

Understanding semantic search

So, what exactly is semantic search? In simple terms, semantic search is a method that search engines use to understand the *intent* and contextual meaning of a search query, rather than just focusing on the individual keywords. It's about understanding the why behind a search, not just the what.

For instance, if you search for "apple," a traditional keyword-based search engine might return results about apple fruit, Apple Inc., or apple recipes. But a semantic search engine will consider the context of your search. If you've been searching for tech news, it might prioritize results about Apple Inc. If you've been looking up recipes, it might show you results about apple pies.

Semantic search is a game-changer because it makes search results more relevant and personalized. It understands that words can have different meanings in different contexts, and it uses this understanding to deliver better search results.

Semantic search is powered by technologies like machine learning and natural language processing, which help search engines understand human language and interpret the intent behind search queries. This is a significant departure from traditional keyword-based search, which simply matches keywords in a search query with keywords on a webpage.

The role of natural language processing (NLP) in semantic search

Natural Language Processing, or NLP, is a critical component of semantic search. NLP is a field of artificial intelligence that helps computers understand, interpret, and respond to human language in a valuable way.

So, when it comes to semantic search, NLP lets search engines get what you really mean when you're typing away. It's not just about the words you use, but also how you use them, what you're really trying to find, and even how you're feeling about it all. This understanding allows search engines to deliver more accurate and relevant search results.

For example, consider a search query like "best places to eat near me." NLP allows a search engine to understand that the user is looking for restaurant recommendations in their current location, and it can deliver results accordingly. Without NLP, a search engine might just look for webpages that contain the words "best," "places," "eat," and "near me," which could lead to less relevant results.

Semantic search vs. traditional keyword-based search

When it comes to understanding the power of semantic search, it's helpful to compare it with traditional keyword-based search. The latter has been the standard for search engines for many years, but it has its limitations.

Keyword-based search works by matching the keywords in a user's search query with the keywords on a webpage. So, let's say you're on the hunt for a yummy apple pie recipe. A keyword-based search engine will go out and find websites that have those exact words "apple pie recipe" in them. This approach is straightforward and can deliver accurate results, but it doesn't take into account the context or intent behind a search query.

On the other hand, semantic search goes a step further. Instead of just matching keywords, it tries to understand the intent and contextual meaning behind a search query. It considers factors like the user's location, search history, and the actual meaning of the words in the search query. This allows it to deliver more personalized and relevant results.

For instance, if you search for "how to make apple pie," a semantic search engine understands that you're looking for a recipe, not just any webpage that mentions apple pie. It might even prioritize video tutorials or step-by-step guides in the search results, based on the understanding that you're likely looking for instructions.

Semantic search excels at handling ambiguous queries. For instance, if you search for "jaguar," a keyword-based search engine might not be able to determine whether you are interested in the animal, the car brand, or the Jacksonville Jaguars football team. A semantic search engine, on the other hand, can use your search history and other contextual clues to make an educated guess about what you are really looking for.

Google's evolution to a semantic search engine

Google, the world's largest search engine, has spearheaded the shift towards semantic search. Over the years, Google has introduced several updates and innovations to adopt a more semantic approach to search.

One of the key milestones in Google's evolution was the introduction of the Knowledge Graph in 2012. The Knowledge Graph is a database that stores information about millions of entities, such as people, places, and things, and the relationships between them.. It helps Google understand the context and meaning behind search queries, allowing it to deliver more relevant and detailed search results.

Another significant development was the launch of the Hummingbird update in 2013. This update marked a fundamental change in Google's ranking algorithm. Instead of just matching keywords, Hummingbird was designed to understand the meaning and intent behind search queries. This allowed Google to deliver more accurate results, especially for complex queries and questions.

Google's journey towards becoming a semantic search engine has been facilitated by advancements in technologies like machine learning and natural language processing. These technologies help Google understand human language, interpret the intent behind search queries, and deliver more personalized and relevant search results.

The implications of semantic search for SEO

The rise of semantic search has significant implications for Search Engine Optimization (SEO). In the past, SEO was largely about keyword optimization — using the right keywords in your content, meta tags, and anchor text. But with semantic search, the focus has shifted from keywords to topics and meanings.

This does not mean that keywords are no longer important. They still play a role in helping search engines understand the topic of your content. However, semantic search requires a more holistic approach to SEO. Creating effective content is not just about using the right keywords, but also about providing comprehensive and relevant information that meets the needs of your audience.

One of the critical elements of semantic SEO is the comprehension of user intent. This involves identifying what users are genuinely searching for when they enter a query into a search engine. Are they seeking information? Are they interested in making a purchase? Or are they searching for a particular website? By grasping user intent, you can develop content that directly caters to the requirements of your audience.

Another important aspect of semantic SEO is topical depth. Instead of focusing on individual keywords, you should aim to cover a topic in depth. This helps search engines understand that your content is a valuable resource on a particular topic. It also increases the chances of your content appearing in the search results for related queries.

Semantic SEO also emphasizes the importance of natural language optimization. This involves writing content in a natural, conversational tone that's easy for both humans and search engines to understand. It also involves using related keywords and phrases that help search engines understand the context and meaning of your content.

Practical tips for optimizing your website for semantic search

Now that we understand the importance of semantic search, let's take a look at some practical tips for optimizing your website for semantic search.

1. Focus on user intent: Try to understand what your audience is really looking for and create content that meets their needs. Use tools like Google Trends, Keyword Planner, and Answer The Public to research popular queries and topics in your industry.
2. Create comprehensive and relevant content: Rather than focusing on individual keywords, aim to cover a topic in depth. This approach not only helps search engines understand your content, but also provides greater value to your audience.
3. Use related keywords and phrases: Use synonyms, related terms, and phrases in your content to help search engines understand the context and meaning of your content. This can also help your content appear in the search results for related queries.
4. Optimize for natural language: Write content in a natural, conversational tone that's easy for both humans and search engines to understand. Also, consider optimizing your content for voice search, as more and more people are using voice assistants to search the web.
5. Use structured data: Structured data is a way of formatting your content so that search engines can better understand it. It can help your content appear in rich search results, like featured snippets and knowledge panels.

Want to see how our team at Magnet tackles optimizing websites? Visit our case studies!

The future of semantic search and its implications.

Moving forward, semantic search is becoming even more sophisticated and integral to how we find information online. With advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, search engines are getting better at understanding natural language, context, and user intent.

This evolution of search technology is not just about improving the accuracy of search results. It's also about providing a more personalized and intuitive search experience. For instance, search engines are now able to understand the context of previous searches to provide more relevant results for subsequent queries. They can also use information about the user's location, device, and browsing history to deliver more personalized search results.

For businesses, the evolution of semantic search means that traditional SEO tactics such as keyword stuffing and link farming are no longer effective. Rather, businesses should focus on creating high-quality, relevant, and comprehensive content that addresses the needs of their audience. Additionally, they should optimize their content for natural language and voice search as more and more people are using voice assistants to search the web.

For users, semantic search means a more intuitive and efficient search experience. Instead of sifting through pages of irrelevant results, users can find the information they're looking for more quickly and easily. It also means more personalized search results, as search engines use information about the user's behavior, preferences, and context to deliver more relevant results.

Let Magnet be your guide for the future of search.

Semantic search is revolutionizing the way we find information online. By understanding the context and meaning of search queries, semantic search provides more accurate and relevant results. For businesses, this means a shift in SEO strategies, with a focus on user intent, topical depth, and natural language optimization. For users, it means a more intuitive and personalized search experience.

At Magnet, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve in all things in the field of websites and marketing. Our team of SEO experts can help you optimize your website for semantic search, ensuring that your content is not only found but also understood by search engines. Contact us today to learn more about our SEO services and how we can help you navigate the future of search.

Want to see how good your SEO is? Request a free SEO audit here!

‍