Comments on: SEO “correlations” and Reverse Engineering Google

by: Chassidy Sissom

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 03:02:07 +0000

You can definitely see your expertise in the work you write. The world hopes for more passionate writers like you who aren’t afraid to say how they believe. Always go after your heart.

by: john andrews

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 00:11:44 +0000

# ho_logos Says:
September 2nd, 2010 at 5:19 am e

That we need capable people doing statistical analysis is certainly true. However, I am confused as to whether you think that correlation work is not worthwhile (you say you have a hard time believing that any correlation work is worthwhile) or that correlation work by noncredentialed people is not worthwhile.

I wish you had left a real name/email. I’d be more inclined to reply thoughtfully.

I think my point was backup your claims, and if that’s not possible, put some skin in the game by putting someone’s reputation behind the claims.

As for correlation analysis, I suggest that correlation analysis of SERPs is probably not something I want to spend much capital on (mental or otherwise). I have a long list of real good reasons for doing other work first.

Show me high correlations (much, much better than chance) and I’ll have work to do (figuring out how that might have happened). I might even learn something. Until then, I’m convined it’s a waste of time and energy.

by: Michael Martinez

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 17:25:32 +0000

Bravo! Well said, and please say it again…and again…and again, because it’s going to take a lot of saying and resaying (if history is any guide) before the majority of people in the SEO community catch on to the faux science behind “correlation studies”.

I figure we’re in for about a two-year run before all the pundits agree that correlationism isn’t going to save the world from Secret Algorithm Latent Technology (S.A.L.T.).

by: Marty

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 02:23:43 +0000

John,
Yep, it’s totally apparent with nearly every analytics study we do, that there is some method or perspective that would reflect favorably on the case study. The best professionals look for reasons to shoot down great stats as part of the process. Thanks for the compelling post John.

by: Dan Perry

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:16:40 +0000

“Only the for-profit sellers gain when consumers unquestioningly accept the hype and open their wallets, or encourage others to do the same.”

See also: Financial industry, Pharma, et al.

Another strong post John; among the seasoned marketers, due diligence is always in favor.