Refresh Content- Is this necessary? If so, How Often?

How important is fresh content?

[ThePhoenix]

I have heard stories that Google keeps track of the HTML on each page, and likes to see a change every so often. I have heard that it does not matter how big or small the change is, as long as there is some sort of change to the HTML.

I assume that this is Googles way of trying to make sure that the most current content is always with the best ranking.

My question to the forum:

1. Am I correct in my assumption?

2. How often do you make sure that the HTML is refreshed?

3. How often does Google like to see the content refreshed?

4. In regards to traffic, have you noticed that you can stabilize your traffic by making sure that the content is always refreshed?

5. If you have noticed a decline in traffic, and you think that it is because of the "refresh" issue, does refreshing the HTML bring traffic levels back up?

6. Can you provide any pointers that I may not have asked?

Thanks-

ThePhoenix

[natto]

Hi,

I would say that it's safe to assume (and this may be a fact - let us know if it is!) that Google rates fresher content higher than older content as it is more up to date, and therefore more likely to be relevant. So, if you keep your content up to date, it will get refreshed on a regular basis and Google will be happy.

However, your content may not be easily updated and may have to remain static. If this is the case, then I would guess (and it's just a guess) that Google would want to see changes in the content rather than just the HTML. If this is the case, then maybe you could change some things in the content that aren't criticle to the overall message that the content is delivering. Perhaps the introduction? Or, of you have sections such as "further reading" you could update something in there. Just a few suggestions, not sure if these are relevant to your content.

Hope this has been of some help... :)

Natto.