Splash page / search results impact

Does adding a splash intro page impact our natural search results

[doge1972]

We are planning to offer some significant new features on our site and would like to use a splash page as an introduction for the first month or so. Does anyone know if this will have a negative impact on our natural search results because our URL will be directed to this splash page? Thanks very much.

[Quadrille]

Domain.com is the key URL of any website; redirecting elswhere is not something you should do lightly.

The new page will be different, is likely image or flash-heavy - yes, it will have an effect.

If your site is well established, with stable rankings, good navigation, no supplemenary listing problems, then that effect may be slight and short lived.

If in doubt, why not feature the item prominently on the home page, with a link to the details?

Depending on the type of site, splash pages have other downsides:

They can prevent your key URL being used as a link - many sites (and most directories) would rather link to a stable, content page. So you end up with domian.com/index2.html. or worse. or no link at all.

Returning visitors may find them timewasting and offputting

Some people - most of those aged 17 and over - just don't like them. they came to see what they want to see, and don't want diverting to your agenda

[edited by: Quadrille at 12:27 am (utc) on Oct. 18, 2006]

[Pedent]

I second what Quadrille said; think very carefully about this. A prominent home page ad may well be a better option than a splash page.