The Google Pigeon algorithm update was initially launched in the United States in July of 2014 before being rolled out in the UK, Australia, and Canada in December of the same year. The focus of the update was to improve local searches.
Both Google Search and Maps saw enhancements to ranking signals to improve the relevancy of local search results to users. Initial glitches were remedied by updates to streamline and improve the original update and provide the service Google initially aimed for.
The Pigeon update was good news for local directories that performed better following the update as well. Websites and local businesses were then able to improve their site and presence on local directories and optimise their Google My Business page to improve their SERP ranking.
The Main Focus of the Algorithm Update
The Google Pigeon algorithm update’s main focus was on local searches. On-site and off-site SEO was important for sites to rank highly, and their physical presence, as well as their online presence, had an impact.
Using local directories and a Google My Business page, businesses were able to prove their location and appear in search queries made by people in the vicinity or using location-based keywords and search terms.
How to Protect Your Site Against This Algorithm Update
Ensuring your site is visible on Google My Business and local directories by providing the same accurate information across all platforms and including optimised descriptions, as well as improving the quality of your on-site content, will improve SERP rankings for local queries.
