Search engine optimization is a common Internet marketing catchphrase, data feed optimization less so. A data feed is quite like an RSS feed; it contains a set of data to be used across multiple platforms. Data feeds can be used by businesses with the intention of increased sales and the ability to reach new audiences. Data feed optimization is one part of the SEO process which aims at modifying products and services to ensure that they achieve the best possible rankings in the major search engines. While data feeds can be made by almost anyone, successfully employing SEO principles is the key to being placed higher on the rankings.

Google Base is Google's data feed service, fast becoming a new SEO strategy. While many online retailers have products listed on Google Base, few do much in terms of optimising Google Base results. The problem arises at the time of submission - most are made via automated programs that append only minimal information to the product. Just like the SEO strategy of submitting to directories is invalid if on-site SEO is missing, similarly data feeds remain irrelevant without the necessary optimization. Thus, data submission is only one step of a larger process, and certain strategies are needed to get the best out of data feeds.

Getting your website, products and services indexed is one thing, getting them put at the top of the search rankings is a different thing altogether. In addition to Google Base, other shopping comparison engines too use a similar data feeds. Submission, management and optimization of data feeds are fast becoming a relevant part of an online marketing campaign. As more and more users of data feeds add appropriate information to their submissions, these in turn are made relevant to searchers on the traditional search listings. It is only a matter of time before Base listings become of as much importance as organic listings are today.

There are a multitude of benefits from submitting data feeds, but for the most part, they help to increase traffic, increase conversion rates, and increase revenue through targeted product placement. In addition, data feeds can help build brand recognition. Datafeed SEO coupled with a strong metrics oriented marketing focus and organic SEO tactics can do wonders for any online business.