Is PPC or SEO More Measurable and Quantifiable

PPC (pay-per-click) and SEO (search engine optimization) are both measurable and quantifiable in different ways. Before we start discussing which one is more measurable and quantifiable, let’s learn the basics.

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing a website so that it ranks higher in search engine results pages (SERPs) for the targeted terms. Google uses a variety of ranking factors for SEO. Some of the most important factors are content, backlinks, user experience, mobile friendliness, security, and many more.

PPC is a form of online advertising in which advertisers are charged each time a user clicks on their advertisement. In PPC, the ads are placed based on targeted keywords. When someone searches for a term or phrase that the advertiser has targeted, PPC advertisements are often shown at the top of search engine results pages (SERPs).

No, PPC (pay-per-click) is not a Google ranking factor. Google does not use paid adverts to determine the order of organic search results.

However, it can indirectly impact short term rankings.

For example, if the users click on your PPC frequently, Google may consider the keyword relevant to your site.

No, PPC ads are not a substitute for SEO. You can utilize these two different strategies to improve the visibility of your website in SERPS.

SEO and PPC can support each other to perform better. PPC can thus be considered a complementary tool to boost SEO impacts but can never be a substitute.

PPC provides greater short-term measurability by allowing you to monitor the number of clicks, impressions, and conversions your ads generate, along with the cost per click and conversion. On the other hand, SEO offers less immediate measurability, but its long-term profitability.

By enhancing your website's organic search ranking, SEO enables increased traffic without ongoing ad expenses.

However, it takes time to build up SEO rankings. Don’t expect to see SEO results overnight which may be acquired from PPC.

Understanding the affecting factors is crucial for choosing the most effective approach that aligns with a business's objectives.

If your target audience is likely to be searching for your products or services directly on Google, then PPC is your strategy.

If your audiences are more likely to navigate informational searches, you should go for SEO.

For example, let’s say Mr. Robert is your potential target. Your business provides virtual assistance service.

If Mr. Robert prefers searching for terms like “Virtual assistance services” or “Virtual assistants to hire”. You can use PPC to attract your targeted traffic.

The other scenario,

If Mr. Robert likes to search with more informational queries like “ The cost of virtual assistants in the United States”, you should plan SEO for your business.

PPC vs. SEO: Audience Targeting

PPC typically requires an ongoing investment as you pay for each click. SEO is more of a cost effective option as it does not require any fixed budget.

Budget Comparison: SEO vs. PPC

Any business decision heavily depends on business objectives. If you want quick traffic, go for PPC. If you want long-term leads or to make people aware of your brand, choose SEO.

Consider the level of competition in your niche. PPC can be effective in highly competitive markets where it's challenging to achieve top organic rankings. SEO, however, can be advantageous if the competition is less intense.

PPC ads can deliver immediate traffic. SEO, on the other hand, takes time to build up organic traffic.

The best approach to your business’s performance in Search-based marketing involves strategically blending SEO and PPC.

Blending SEO and PPC offers advantages such as broader keyword coverage, increased visibility on SERPs, data-driven insights, and the flexibility to adapt to market changes.

Businesses can harness the full potential of both strategies by using them simultaneously.

PPC provides immediate measurability, whereas SEO's measurability is more indirect and demands a longer-term perspective. Based on specific marketing objectives, both strategies should be taken into consideration.

If you are still unsure which one suits your business needs best, contact our SEO consultants.