How Important is ALT Text in Search Engine Optimization?
Search engine optimizers no longer need to use keyword phrases in the ALT text of images on their Web pages.
However, let's look at a smarter approach.
The major engines don't consider the contents of ALT text now, but that doesn't mean they won't six months from now. Always remembering the "basics" is one of the best strategies to follow.
1. Remember that the purpose of ALT text is to describe the image for the benefit of those who surf the Web with images turned off and for those who have the contents of Web pages read out loud to them. The WC3 highly recommends that Web site owners use ALT text to describe images.
2. Use your keyword phrase in one or two instances of ALT text on the page no more. Use moderation in everything you do in search engine optimization.
3. Don't use text that is non-relevant to the image. Don't keyword stuff. Jerry West adds, "Give the visitor information that is worthwhile, especially for the visually impaired."
4. "Consider using a description below the graphic. Based on recent test results, this is read often," states West.
If your intent is to fool the search engine into giving you a higher ranking, you are performing 'grey or black hat' strategies. Stay on the right side of the path and the engines will bless you.":)
Remember . . . ALT Text is Just One "Piece of the Pie"
Relevancy and ranking are determined by over 100 different factors. ALT text was just one piece of that pie, a sliver at that.
Don't ever focus on just one piece of the pie. Always remember the basics - the SEO foundation - and make sure it's solid.
If you know you're weak in one or two areas, you know you have to beef up on other pieces of the SEO pie.
By Robin Nobles
Source: http://www.seo-news.com/archives/2005/aug/18.html
However, let's look at a smarter approach.
The major engines don't consider the contents of ALT text now, but that doesn't mean they won't six months from now. Always remembering the "basics" is one of the best strategies to follow.
1. Remember that the purpose of ALT text is to describe the image for the benefit of those who surf the Web with images turned off and for those who have the contents of Web pages read out loud to them. The WC3 highly recommends that Web site owners use ALT text to describe images.
2. Use your keyword phrase in one or two instances of ALT text on the page no more. Use moderation in everything you do in search engine optimization.
3. Don't use text that is non-relevant to the image. Don't keyword stuff. Jerry West adds, "Give the visitor information that is worthwhile, especially for the visually impaired."
4. "Consider using a description below the graphic. Based on recent test results, this is read often," states West.
If your intent is to fool the search engine into giving you a higher ranking, you are performing 'grey or black hat' strategies. Stay on the right side of the path and the engines will bless you.":)
Remember . . . ALT Text is Just One "Piece of the Pie"
Relevancy and ranking are determined by over 100 different factors. ALT text was just one piece of that pie, a sliver at that.
Don't ever focus on just one piece of the pie. Always remember the basics - the SEO foundation - and make sure it's solid.
If you know you're weak in one or two areas, you know you have to beef up on other pieces of the SEO pie.
By Robin Nobles
Source: http://www.seo-news.com/archives/2005/aug/18.html
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