Google has updated its “Search Quality Evaluator Guidelines,” a 170-page spread document which serves as a framework for quality assessors to evaluate websites effectively.
The update follows the search engine’s latest Core and Spam updates.
Reliability information
The updated guidelines provide valuable information on how Google determines the trustworthiness of web pages and websites.
Although quality scores do not directly influence search rankings, the document explains what Google considers essential for a high-quality website.
Latest changes
According to the changelog on page 170 of the document, Google has “updated the features of untrusted pages and added illustrative examples.”
This is the first update to the guidelines since November 2023, highlighting the importance of the changes made.
Untrustworthy web pages and websites
The new information is on page 35, Section 4.5, titled “Untrusted Web Pages or Websites.”
Google has expanded the list of characteristics that quality raters should look for when evaluating the trustworthiness of a web page or website.
The document now states that a page should be considered unreliable if it contains “multiple or significant factual inaccuracies in an informational page that would cause users to lose confidence in the web page as a source of reliable information.”
Illustrative examples
To further clarify these updates, Google has included illustrative examples in the quality rater guide.
Google updated the Guidelines document for Search Quality Evaluators for the first time since November 2023 with:
“Updated Untrusted Pages features and added illustrative examples”
🤨 Evidence of fraudulent behavior
🤨 Evidence of criminal behavior
Below are the… pic.twitter.com/4fcGicfsoK
— Carl Hendy (@carlhendy) March 6, 2024
These examples provide practical guidance for identifying untrustworthy pages and websites, helping quality assessors make more informed assessments.
The importance of reliable content
Updates to the Search Quality Evaluator guidelines are notable as the Internet continues to grow and evolve rapidly.
With the increasing prevalence of misinformation, it is more important than ever that search engines prioritize reliable and accurate content.
Implications for website owners and SEO professionals
As Google continues to refine its algorithms and guidelines, website owners and SEO professionals should take note of these changes and strive to create high-quality, reliable content that meets the search engine’s standards. search
Doing so can improve your chances of ranking well in search results and provide users with the reliable information they’re looking for.
To sum up
The updated Search Quality Evaluator Guidelines serve as a valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand Google’s expectations for website quality. As the search landscape evolves, staying informed about these guidelines and adapting accordingly will be essential for continued success.
FAQ
What are the Google Search Quality Evaluator Guidelines?
The Google Search Quality Assessor Guidelines are a detailed document used as a reference by quality assessors to evaluate and determine the reliability and quality of websites and web pages. The guidelines include criteria for evaluating a site’s content, user experience, and overall reputation.
What are the latest changes to the Google Search Quality Assessor guidelines?
Updated criteria: The guidelines now provide updated characteristics of pages that are untrustworthy, helping quality raters identify untrustworthy content. Illustrative examples: Google included practical examples in the guide, which clarify the definition and recognition of untrusted pages and websites.
As an SEO professional, how can I ensure my website aligns with Google’s quality standards?
Review the Search Quality Evaluator guidelines to stay informed about what Google considers high-quality content. Create content with a focus on accuracy, ensuring that all factual claims are backed up by reputable sources. Monitor the overall user experience and reputation of the website, making necessary improvements to meet guidelines and standards.
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