On February 24, 2011, Google implemented a major algorithm update, named Panda, that influences how Google ranks websites. The Panda update was introduced to help combat and reduce the presence of low-quality content in their search results. That being said, Panda has left a sea of victims in the wake of its warpath and has affected some 12% of search results as well as halving many websites’ visits.

Okay, don't panic! There is plenty of debate as to whether Google's Panda was fair to all website owners -- many feel they were unjustly penalized. At this point, we're going skirt that issue and just focus on optimizing your website to the current standards. If it is important that your business' website ranks well in the Google search results, then you need to make some changes to your SEO campaigns and strategies.

First, do your homework and study up on the Panda update and how it affects search. Second, get up to speed on Google's guidelines for search friendly web development. Below is a good place to start, but by no means is this a complete guide to success. Again, do your homework -- armed with some knowledge and a willingness to makes changes to your SEO practices, your website will do just fine in the wake of Panda. Remember, Google launches several algorithm updates per year -- this one happens to be a biggie, but you have to be able (and willing) to roll with the punches.