I’ve heard from several folks that they think Google’s search rank quality is worse after the last adjustment to the algorithm code named Jagger (we wrote about this on October 31st). I haven’t noticed a difference, but decided to try a little test using the following query - How to Build an Outdoor Fireplace - on Google, Yahoo, MSN and Ask Jeeves. Here’s what I found and what I think:

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MSN’s internal search technology and algorithms are still pretty fresh. We’ve been researching some different ways to optimize within their environment specifically and have some recommendations for you. RankNet is an internal MSN term that refers to their Nueral Network approach to generating rankings for specific sites agains specific keyword sets. It went into production in June of last year and is starting to become a known differentiator between MSN and the other engines. There is a lot of information available online regarding this process, what goes into it and how it functions based on the patent application, but for us normal folks - here are some keys to optimizing your pages for MSN specifically:

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The following is from a Guerilla Marketing Newsletter I receive. It outlines 20 steps to boost direct mail profits, but can be applied to just about any direct marketing campaign.

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