Google is continuously innovating and modifying its search algorithm to provide users with the best and most relevant results. The recent changes announced on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, focus on altering the visibility of HowTo and FAQ rich results. Here’s a quick rundown of what these changes mean and what the implications are for SEO strategies, particularly for those who invest in providing valuable content.

1. Changes to FAQ Rich Results

 The visibility of FAQ rich results is being reduced and will only be shown for authoritative government and health websites. Others can retain the structured data, but it will have no visible effects in Google Search. This move may shift the focus more towards crafting authoritative content that builds credibility.

2. Limiting How-To Rich Results to Desktop Devices

How-To rich results will now only be displayed for desktop users. Therefore, those who heavily invest in this kind of structured data should ensure that their mobile version includes the appropriate markup. The challenge is to keep the content compelling and informative while also adhering to this new desktop-focused presentation.

3. Search Console Reporting Changes

The changes will also be visible in the Search Console reporting metrics for FAQ and How-To search appearances, but this won’t affect the number of items reported in the enhancement reports.

Implications for SEO Strategy

The recent changes underline the importance of focusing on quality content, particularly in a landscape where the rules are continuously evolving. Here are some takeaways for SEO professionals:

Authority Matters: With the emphasis on well-known and authoritative sites for FAQ rich results, building credibility through well-researched and verified information becomes even more crucial.

Adaptation to Platform Preferences: Understanding and adapting to platform-specific rules (e.g., desktop-only for How-To) ensures that content is still accessible and beneficial to the target audience.

Value and Relevance Still Key: Despite these changes, the core principle of providing valuable content with compelling information for your target audience remains an evergreen SEO strategy.

Conclusion

While the latest changes to the Google search algorithm can seem daunting, they provide an opportunity to re-evaluate and fine-tune SEO strategies. Maintaining a focus on delivering high-quality, relevant content that resonates with the audience will continue to be the cornerstone of successful SEO.

Remember, in the ever-changing world of SEO, flexibility and adherence to quality will always keep you in the game.  If these changes impact your website or SEO strategy, let us do a free digital marketing audit to be proactive in understanding where you stand versus competition and see the recommendations to grow your organic traffic.