What Questions Should I Ask When Scoping a Technical SEO Project?

When scoping a technical SEO project, ask questions about the current website structure, crawlability, indexation issues, and site speed. These questions help identify technical barriers that may hinder search engine rankings and user experience. Additionally, inquire about past SEO efforts and any specific goals to ensure alignment with the project objectives.

Why Technical SEO Matters

Technical SEO is the backbone of your online visibility. It’s not just about keywords and content; it’s about making sure search engines can find, crawl, and index your site efficiently. Think of it like building a house. You wouldn’t start decorating before ensuring the foundation is solid, right?

Consider a SaaS company with a complex site structure. If search engines struggle to crawl their pages, potential customers might never find them. The same applies to any business relying on organic traffic. Technical SEO is what keeps the digital doors open.

Key Questions to Ask

Before diving into a technical SEO project, you need a clear roadmap. Here are some questions to guide your scoping process:

• What is the current state of the website architecture? Understanding how the site is structured helps identify potential crawlability issues.
• Are there any known indexing problems? This can highlight if search engines are having trouble accessing content.
• How fast does the website load? Site speed affects both user experience and search rankings, so it’s crucial to assess this early on.
• What tools and platforms are currently being used for SEO? Knowing this can help integrate new strategies with existing systems.
• What are the specific goals and KPIs for this project? Aligning on objectives ensures everyone is on the same page.

Asking these questions sets the stage for a successful project. It’s about uncovering hidden issues and setting realistic expectations.

Let’s Talk About Realities

Here’s the thing. Technical SEO isn’t sexy. It’s not the glamorous side of digital marketing. But it’s absolutely essential. You can have the best content in the world, but if your site is a nightmare to navigate, no one will ever see it.

Imagine you’re working with a top seo agency. They’ll tell you the same. You need to get the technical stuff right before anything else. It’s like making sure your car engine runs smoothly before worrying about the paint job.

And don’t forget about ongoing maintenance. Search engines evolve, and so should your site. Regular audits and updates are part of the deal.

So, when you’re scoping a technical SEO project, remember: it’s about building a solid foundation. Everything else follows.