In the evolving landscape of search engine optimization (SEO), Google’s recent update to its page experience guidelines marks a significant clarification regarding Core Web Vitals (CWV) and their role in search rankings. While there has been widespread speculation about the importance of CWV as a ranking factor, Google has not explicitly acknowledged this connection until now. In an updated section of its documentation, Google has indicated that CWVs are utilized within its ranking algorithms, although it stops short of labeling them as direct ranking factors.
Historically, Google has maintained a level of opacity regarding the specifics of its ranking criteria, possibly to prevent manipulation of search results. The term “ranking factor” is commonly employed within the SEO community to denote elements that influence the positioning of web pages in search engine results pages (SERPs), yet Google’s official communications typically avoid this terminology. For instance, Matt Cutts, a notable former Google engineer, consistently refrained from using the term in his extensive public communications.
The discourse around CWV and their impact on search rankings gained a measure of authority from John Mueller, a Google Search Advocate known for bridging the communication gap between Google’s engineering team and the webmaster community. Mueller’s insights carry weight due to his insider perspective, yet even he has been cautious in defining CWV as a ranking factor, mentioning it explicitly only within a casual context on Reddit. This cautious approach is mirrored in Google’s search results explanation, which does not outright declare CWV as a ranking factor.
In a revealing tweet from February 2024, Google’s Search Liaison elaborated on the absence of CWV from the list of ranking factors or signals. According to the liaison, this omission reflects the dynamic nature of Google’s ranking processes. Instead of singularly focusing on CWV, the recommendation is to consider a holistic approach to enhancing page experiences, which can contribute to improved search rankings. This stance aligns with the guidelines set forth in the “Page Experience In Search Results” document, which has been consistent since its first publication in 2022.
Google’s recent update to its page experience documentation clearly acknowledges the role of CWV in ranking algorithms. Previously, the language used was more ambiguous, suggesting a general alignment of various page experience aspects with successful search performance without explicitly mentioning CWV. The revised documentation now specifies that Core Web Vitals are factored into Google’s ranking systems, reducing the ambiguity of their importance.
However, it is important to note that achieving favorable CWV metrics, whether through Google’s Search Console or third-party tools, does not alone guarantee higher rankings. A superior page experience encompasses more than just CWV. It is a combination of factors that contribute to a website’s overall quality.
At MedShark Digital, we understand the multifaceted nature of SEO and the importance of optimizing for a comprehensive page experience. Our team of SEO specialists is equipped to support your efforts in enhancing your website’s performance, focusing on providing an exceptional user experience. Contact us to leverage our expertise and drive the success of your digital campaigns.