Search Engine Optimization Or Web Design – What Comes First

Writing by Nick Stamoulis Tweet

A little like the chicken and the egg, what should be your first priority, search engine optimization or web design? Most website owners grab a domain name, have their site built, load it with content, and then decide whether or not to use some search engine optimization strategies, or perhaps advertising such as PPC (see my previous post – Search Engine Optimization Or Pay Per Click (PPC).)

My feelings are fairly blunt when it comes to a question like this. Your website is nothing more than a blank template. You get the template designed, often for more than one page, and then fill it with content. Don’t get me wrong, this template is important but it needs to put into some perspective, particularly when you are considering search engine optimization requirements.

As search engine optimization professionals, the ideal scenario is to call us in as soon as you decide to develop an online presence. To get the very best results, your domain name, your host, the design of the sites template and the content that goes into that template all need to be optimized for search engines – from day one! A quick break down of each step will provide a better understanding.

Domain Name: your domain name needs to be as straightforward as possible. Whilst you may feel that a long name describes your business, it should be easily remembered. Other considerations include registering similar names to protect your current or future branding.

Host: yes, even your website host needs careful consideration. If you are going to use a shopping cart, can it be easily accessed and do they offer Site Security. The hosts ability to handle heavy traffic loads also needs consideration.

Web Page Design: perhaps I unfairly labeled it a template, perhaps the term ‘shell’ would sit better. Whichever name you use, it needs to designed with search engine optimization requirements in mind. Most web page designers know little of Search Engine Optimization strategies.

Content: ensuring your content has correct use of keywords in page headings, content body and graphic tags is very important.

Employing a search engine optimization consultant from day one can ensure that your whole site is fully optimized and ready for your to start reaping the rewards of a well planned site.