[vc_row][vc_column width=”1\/1″][vc_column_text]It is always my goal to increase my knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO<\/strong>). Daily I read trade journal articles on various subjects including SEO and today I learned of a concept that I never heard of… the Spider Trap<\/em>.<\/p>\n Everyone knows that search engines and other entities send small roaming programs called ‘spiders’ that index every website. I now understand that these can get stuck when an action is required or there is no link leading back to the website. Because the spider is unable to continue or return, it counts as a usability issue and is scored negatively in search engine rankings.<\/p>\n Two excellent examples of this are login buttons and printable versions of content:<\/p>\n Many sites are created with multiple options for a user to login in order to access more content, purchase an item, or what have you. This opens a dialog that must be complete by the user in order to continue. Since a spider cannot enter credentials, it gets stuck – creating a usability error.<\/p>\n Likewise, a printable version of content, i.e. a menu, price list, or schedule may be convenient for the end user, but can trap a spider since there is no return. I often place printable content on my websites in the form of a PDF file. A prime example of this is the Salvatori’s Printable Menu<\/a> page.<\/p>\nLogin Button<\/h2>\n
Printable Content<\/h2>\n