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July 30, 2009
LSI and Natural Language Processing Truths
There has been much discussion lately about content relevancy and the relationship between Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) and search engine optimization. Some say LSI has nothing to do with how Google scores pages. Others hail LSI as a powerful method of optimizing or theming your content and leads to marked improvement in natural search results.
Before proceeding, it is important to point out that there is much confusion and misconception in the SEO industry with regard to LSI. Within the industry among the typical SEO professional, the term LSI is used quite pervasively but also quite loosely. Almost any technology that a search engine might use to aid in the process of determining the meaning of content gets labeled as LSI. The way most in the world of SEO use LSI has really become a catch all term for any technology used for the purpose of semantic analysis.
We asked SEO educator and semantics expert, Michael Marshall to address the topic and help separate the facts from fiction about LSI and Natural Language Processing.
Please read his full article called:
SEO, Latent Semantic Indexing and Natural Language Processing
Here is a little more on Michael's qualification to address the topic:
Michael also holds degrees in Linguistics and Philosophy from the University of Maryland. He is a contributing author to SEOToday.com, the premier website for SEO professionals. He is the author of the E-book, "Checkmating the Search Engines" and creator of highly acclaimed, online SEO tool, "Theme Master" - the search engine themes analyzer. Mike is owner of the Search Engine Academy of North Carolina.
Michael is a licensed instructor at the North Carolina Search Engine Academy. He has also recently become an instructor on search engine technologies for the U.S. Patent Office.
What do others say about Michael Marshall's qualifications?
"Mike is one of the most insightful technologists in the organic search optimization industry. The tools invented under Mike's watch at Fortune Interactive are unmatched in sophistication. In addition to his technical acumen, Mike is an extremely responsible and reliable person--someone you can count on. I can heartily recommend Mike for any technical or technical management position."
- Mike Moran
Distinguished Engineer and Product Manager of IBM's OmniFind Search Product
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"Mike Marshall is literally one of the brightest minds in the world of Search Engines and Search Engine Optimization (SEO). With a degree in Linguistics that allowed him to absorb concepts like Latent Semantic Indexing and then apply his programming skill, Mike has a grasp on the science (both theoretical and applied) of search engines like few others do. Among many unique qualities Mike has, is his unassuming and open approach to sharing his knowledge with his clients. He doesn't "hold back" to save something for the next contract. When you ask Mike a question he gives you an answer. The right one. I don't know of another person in the world of SEO whose knowledge I trust more than Mike Marshall."
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert
- Gordon Magee
Internet Marketing and Analysis Manager at Drs. Foster & Smith
Rated #83 in the Internet Retailer 500
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Posted by John at July 30, 2009 03:57 PM