Experiences refined for people
The March 2024 Google Algorithm has spurred conversations about the relationship between AI-generated content and content quality. This algorithm has knocked many AI sites out of rankings, particularly those who post a massive amount of content regularly.
Explore the causes behind this update, commonly asked questions, and actionable insights to stay current with Google.
Google implemented the “March 2024 Core Update” only a month ago. While it’s common for Google to adjust its algorithm periodically, the changes are typically more incremental. This time, however, the update has larger implications for search engine results pages (SERPs), similar to what happened during their Core Web Vitals update.
As we can see, the SERP volatility over the past month has wavered into the ‘”high” (and even some days in the “very high”), meaning we’re seeing more changes than we’re used to.
SERP visibility example over the last 30 days since the update, via SEMRush.
Google has stated that this update aims to assess the “helpfulness” of content. The primary focus seems to be managing AI-generated or “spam” content, which is detected and targeted through the search engine’s SpamBrain detection service.
Google has indicated that this update is more complicated than typical algorithm changes, it is still ongoing though expected to conclude shortly.
Marketers have noticed the changes and started adapting their strategies accordingly. Despite these adjustments, many sites continue to experience adverse effects from the update.
“The March 2024 core update is a more complex update than our usual core updates, involving changes to multiple core systems. It also marks an evolution in how we identify the helpfulness of content….
As this is a complex update, the rollout may take up to a month. It’s likely…
— Google SearchLiaison (@searchliaison) April 2, 2024
What strategies do you employ to differentiate your AI-assisted content from low-quality, mass-produced AI content?
“As with any written material, it’s crucial to approach it as a competent editor and fact-checker. Treat anything AI produces as an initial draft, requiring significant revision and a personal touch. Ensure the accuracy and originality of your ideas, opinions, and facts. Prompt ChatGPT with specific information to guide its output, as it may generate inaccurate statistics or facts. Consider it akin to supervising a junior team member; you wouldn’t publish an intern’s work without thorough review and refinement. Apply the same diligence with AI-generated content.”
The March 2024 Google Algorithm update does not ban using AI tools like ChatGPT or Grammarly for content creation. Google only targets low-quality AI content and does not scrutinize all AI-generated content. Many content creators and websites extensively use AI and still achieve high rankings.
The key lies in proper usage. Churning AI-generated content with minimal human oversight will lead to subpar quality. However, if you and your team take the time to edit, refine, and review this content thoroughly, it can still perform well in rankings.
🩵 Are you worried your content might look like AI? For peace of mind, consider using a tool like this AI content detector from Writer.com. While these tools are not foolproof, they likely have parameters comparable to those of Google’s spam detector.
Adjusting for the March 2024 Algorithm: Now or Later?
“Regardless, if you have noticed things that are worth improving on your site, I’d go ahead and get things done. The idea is not to make changes just for search engines, right? Your users will be happy if you can make things better even if search engines haven’t updated their view of your site yet.”
📚 Related Article: Technical SEO: What It Is + 10 Tips to Get Started
Stay on top of your SEO strategy with our technical SEO guide.
Google’s updates consistently favor user-centric content. Websites with poor-quality content or user experience will ultimately face negative impacts from the March 2024 Core Update and future changes.
This emphasis on user experience has been a core Google principle for years, underlined by the latest update. Accurate and helpful content significantly enhances SEO. The principle that “content is king” is a crucial website enhancement strategy. Improving your site’s user experience sends positive signals to Google, increasing your resilience against updates like March 2024.
Provide valuable content and a seamless user experience to improve your site’s Google ranking. These are vital to making your website more update-resistant. Read Google’s documentation on Creating helpful, reliable, people-first content to learn more.
About the Author
Josh Pettovello is a University of Michigan graduate who enjoys all things data, SEO, and nerding out.
Here’s what we've been up to recently.
From us to your inbox weekly.
