Google Unleashes Yet Another Exciting Algorithm Update

On December 12th, Google pushed their standard core algorithm update, dubbed Maccabees by SERountables's Barry Schwartz, into production. Keeping in tune with the theme of 2017, controversy inevitably arose. Companies, both large and small, claimed that their Google search results took an alarming 25-30% hit. While each site reported a slightly different percentage drop, the general consensus was that organic traffic had significantly lessened. With the recent repeal of net neutrality, this Google update has been a kiss of death for some.

In an effort to clear Google's name, Dan Sullivan, Google's public liaison, took to Twitter. In short, Sullivan revealed that the Maccabees update was nothing more than several minor changes that routinely occur in any particular week. Sullivan later went on to say that we [Google] checked and didn't see any major or single change on our end. Essentially, Sullivan claimed that the December 12th update was standard procedure, up to code, and didn't deviate from their routine, weekly updates. While Sullivan's explanation makes the update look completely innocuous, there's no denying that the Maccabees update took a major toll on some sites.

Barry Schwartz did not shy away from revealing the harsh realities some sites experienced. One site expressed that their longstanding #1 ranking shot down to #9 and was eclipsed by outdated articles that held no clout, while another site admitted that their keywords were in disarray. Another web owner not-so-subtly expressed their displeasure, capping off their statement with hope Google stops messing around. This arbitrary, unexpected change has undeniably caused an uproar. As is the way of the 21st century, this update has polarized the Internet into two prominent groups: those who believe SEO specialists are merely fearmongering vs. those who are approaching the update with discernible concern.

Regardless of what camp you fall under, if you're a site owner who didn't undergo inexplicable, consequential changes in Mid-December, count yourself lucky.