Monday, March 3, 2008

'SEM' vs 'SEO' ... Methods and Practices

We have briefly discussed the idea of Search Engine Optimization in class. 'SEO' is basically the practice of configuring a web site's content and design in order to target specific keywords that are being searched for by users. So, what is the difference between 'SEM' (Search Engine Marketing), and 'SEO' (Search Engine Optimization). How can Social Media PR be utilized in the process of 'SEM' and 'SEO'.

The methods that have been developed for marketing on the internet can basically be divided into 2 separate categories. As I mentioned above, 'SEO' is basically the practice of configuring a websites configuration in order to target specific keywords. 'SEM' is what some people would simply refer to as the "off page factors" of 'SEO'. I personally like to think of 'SEO' and 'SEM' as two separate process that only connected through the targeted keywords.

So if 'SEO' and 'SEM' are 2 separate practices that are only connected by keywords that a site wishes to target: What is the best way to combine these 2 practices when building a website? Well it would be impossible to explain all of the different techniques that can be used for the "on page factors" of 'SEO' and the "off page factors" of 'SEM'. There are tons of really helpful online courses, videos, and blogs that are available to the public for purchase or for free. It is important to utilize these resources in order learn all about the different 'SEO' and 'SEM' techniques. I will attempt to just skim the conceptual surface of how to mesh these two practices together in order to target specific keywords.

The concept of combining these 2 practices together begins with the creation of a website and a webpage. It is important to think about your website in terms of individual pages, instead of thinking about the entire site as a whole, one must think of the function and importance of each individual page.

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