In the most recent episode of Google’s podcast “Search Off the Record,” Search Liaison Danny Sullivan joins the show to discuss a timely topic.
Coinciding with the rollout of Google’s August 2023 core algorithm update, Sullivan addresses common questions and misconceptions about ranking systems.
This article overviews the 34-minute episode, highlighting the most relevant insights.
Google’s Ranking Systems
Sullivan pointed out that Google’s ranking system isn’t one algorithm but many systems working together.
He states:
“A lot of people think, ‘Oh, there’s the Google algorithm, and that’s it, it’s this big giant thing.’ And of course, as we all know, there’s multiple systems that all come into play.”
Ranking Updates vs. Ranking Systems
Google discussed the change from referring to Google’s algorithm updates by specific names to viewing them as ongoing ranking systems.
For example, the update formerly known as “Panda” is now seen as a persistent, integral part of a ranking system.
This reflects how these algorithm changes have become fully incorporated into and continuously optimize Google’s search results.