Google recently launched its November 2023 Core update, the second substantial adjustment to its search algorithm in the past month and the fourth this year. As usual, Google expects to complete the full implementation of this update over the next two weeks. 

Today we released the November 2023 core update. We'll update our ranking release history page when the rollout is complete: https://t.co/hgjEkfpbA2

Related to this, we’ve posted a Q&A on Google Search updates as a refresher about how updates work: https://t.co/N5p3KsJ0ta

— Google Search Central (@googlesearchc) November 2, 2023

In 2023, Google introduced a series of core updates, starting with the March 2023 core update, followed by the August 2023 core update and the October 2023 core update. Each of these updates aimed to enhance the overall search experience and improve the quality of search results. Google has indicated the November 2023 core update impacts a different core system than the recent October update. While each core update has specific enhancements, Google’s general guidelines consistently maintain the same principles. 

Google Reviews Update Coming

Google has also revealed plans for an upcoming reviews update. This update reflects a shift toward a continuous and ongoing refinement of the review system. Consequently, Google will discontinue issuing periodic notifications regarding changes to this system.

A Q&A on Google Search Updates

For webmasters and website owners looking for additional information about these updates, Google offers a comprehensive Q&A on the November 2023 core update and the forthcoming reviews update. One common question addressed in the Q&A is the frequency of Google’s core updates. In response, Google has explained that it operates various core systems within the ranking process, and each update typically targets a unique core system. Furthermore, the distinction between a ranking update and a ranking system has been clarified.

“Ranking systems are what we use to generate search results. We use multiple ranking systems that do different things. We have a guide to Google search ranking systems that explains some of our more notable ones. Updates are when we make an improvement to a ranking system.“

Regarding update scheduling, Google has also indicated it makes an effort to avoid rolling out updates from late November through mid-December when feasible. However, if updates have undergone several months of development and are poised to enhance the overall search experience, they will be released as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts: Why Do You Care? 

Google algorithm updates can considerably influence your website’s online visibility. Core updates present evolving situations, and businesses and SEO experts should remain patient through the coming weeks, given that the full impact of the October 2023 update is ongoing and the effects of this November update remain to be seen.

In the meantime, website owners should continue focusing on improving the quality of their sites and avoid seeking quick fixes. Evaluating and responding to the effects of a core update can be unpredictable. Thus, it remains vital to consistently adhere to proven SEO best practices, such as improving your website’s content.

Managing a law firm’s website can be challenging and often requires specialized knowledge of SEO and the legal industry. Our team of legal marketing experts at Justia can assist your law firm in maximizing its return on investment by staying up-to-date with Google’s ever-evolving algorithms and industry trends.

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