Optimizing Websites Like a Sort Engine (Not Just a Search Engine)
Intro
Most people think search engines are the key to getting found online, but I believe websites should function more like sort engines—helping users find what they actually need without digging through unnecessary clutter. A search engine throws a million results at you. A sort engine structures information so the right thing is surfaced at the right time.
How to Make Your Website a Sort Engine
1. Clear Navigation – If visitors can’t find what they need in three clicks, they’ll leave.
2. Internal Linking Done Right – Links should guide users naturally, not just exist for SEO purposes.
3. Readable Content – Walls of text? No thanks. Use clear headings, skimmable sections, and quick takeaways.
4. User Intent Over Keywords – Instead of stuffing pages with keywords, structure them based on how people naturally look for information.
5. Organized Categories and Tags – Like tagging in Salesforce cases or Todoist tasks, effective categorization keeps everything accessible.
AI-Ready Optimization
• Future search & AI tools will pull structured data from websites, so if your site is messy and unorganized, AI won’t surface the best parts.
• Websites need to be structured logically, not just optimized for Google rankings.
• Businesses should think about how information is sorted and retrieved, not just how it appears in search results.
Final Thoughts
The future isn’t just about search—it’s about smart organization. Websites that function as sort engines will thrive in an era where AI-driven search tools prioritize clear, structured, and useful content. If your website isn’t optimized for this shift, it’s time to rethink how you present information.
How well is your website sorting information? Let’s talk!