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Is Google's AI killing the open web? - My 2 cents from 14 years in SEO
r/SaaS
7/15/2025
Content Summary
An SEO veteran with 14 years experience recommends shifting focus from SEO investments due to Google's AI integration in search results. Their company is cutting content budgets and moving resources to other channels while maintaining core BOFU-MOFU content. Comments reveal divided opinions about SEO's relevance, with some users reporting significant traffic drops while others maintain success through vertical-specific optimization and AI adaptation.
Opinion Analysis
Mainstream opinion suggests SEO value is declining due to AI-powered search results reducing website clicks. Key debate centers around:
- SEO viability: Some argue for vertical-specific SEO importance (u/Far-Criticism-3181) while others report traffic declines (u/Wide-Annual-4858)
- Content strategy: Conflict between maintaining quality content vs shifting budgets
- Platform dependence: Discussion about balancing owned channels (websites) vs third-party platforms Controversial viewpoint: u/avdept counters SEO-is-dead claims with current success cases in paid projects
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| [No specific SaaS tools mentioned in content] | - | - | - |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Declining website traffic due to Google's AI answers
- Reduced clicks from search results
- Difficulty maintaining content ROI
Problems to Solve:
- Adapting to AI-driven search changes
- Maintaining website relevance
- Allocating marketing budgets effectively
Potential Solutions:
- Shift focus from SEO to other channels
- Optimize for AI recommendations
- Maintain core content for BOFU-MOFU stages
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Diversify marketing channels beyond SEO
- Focus on AI optimization for search
- Maintain strategic content updates
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Leverage social media for content distribution
- Prioritize vertical-specific SEO for niche markets
Monetization & Product:
- Balance content investment with ROI analysis
- Develop AI-compatible content strategies
User Engagement:
- Create genuinely useful website content
- Focus on decision-stage content (BOFU-MOFU)