SEO & GENERATIVE ENGINE OPTIMISATION

SEO and AI-search readiness: what actually matters?

Understand technical SEO, generative engine optimisation (GEO) and AI-search readiness. Learn what a Lighthouse homepage check does—and does not—measure.

What is AI-search or generative engine optimisation (GEO)?

Generative engine optimisation (GEO), sometimes called answer engine optimisation (AEO), refers to making useful website information understandable, accessible and credible so that search engines and AI-assisted answer systems can discover and potentially reference it. It is not a separate score that guarantees inclusion in ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews or other tools.

SEO fundamentals still matter for AI search

Google's guidance is clear: appearing in AI Overviews and AI Mode relies on familiar search foundations. Relevant, indexable pages, accurate information and useful original content matter more than invented tricks or a special AI-only metadata file.

• Allow appropriate crawling. Make useful public pages available without a login wall, unintended noindex or blocked resources.
• Write clear answers. Explain what you offer, who it helps, what it costs (where known), how it works and what the limitations are.
• Make evidence visible. Publish verifiable product details, methods, case studies and dates where applicable; don't invent results or customer reviews.
• Use a consistent business identity. Connect your website, company details and relevant public references with correct names and working links.
• Keep pages fast and usable. Mobile readability, semantic headings, link clarity and accessible content help humans and crawlers alike.
• Use accurate structured data. Schema markup can clarify page meaning, but it must match what visitors can actually see and won't guarantee an AI citation.

What can SiteAudit AI check today?

The free SiteAudit AI tool runs Google Lighthouse checks on one public homepage, including a limited technical SEO category. It can help identify some technical issues that may undermine the user experience and basic discoverability. It does not test AI-answer citations, prompt rankings, generative search share of voice, entity salience or GEO performance.

What should a complete SEO and AI-search assessment involve?

A serious review looks across relevant pages and real search needs: indexation and canonicalisation, information architecture, on-page intent, structured data, content usefulness, page speed, accessibility, competitor coverage, and whether factual claims can be supported by primary sources. AI-search visibility should be checked against defined real queries and documented methods, with uncertainty disclosed. BU1ST Technologies offers advanced website crawls and tailored technical assessments for businesses that need more than the free homepage check. Enquire with BU1ST ↗.

Can schema markup guarantee Google rich results or AI citations?

No. Structured data helps describe content. Search engines decide whether and how to use it, and may change features or eligibility criteria. Avoid adding misleading FAQ, review, business or product markup solely to chase a search feature.

For Australian businesses

If customers search for services in Australia, use accurate Australian terminology, the areas you genuinely serve, transparent contact information and useful local detail where it is relevant. Do not create dozens of thin location pages claiming places you do not actually service.

Official guidance: Google's generative AI search optimisation guide and AI features and your website.