According to sources close to Google, the reason for a huge delay in the PageRank update this quarter can be attributed directly to the new algorithm used to judge the quality scores of websites. This new algorithm is taking longer than normal due to server overload.
Its also being reported that after receiving numerous feedback regarding the “uselessness” of PageRank from webmasters they will be releasing a new set of variables that ranks websites and assigns the number we all know as PR.
The information I’m receiving is the new name will be “WebRank” moving forward rather than the typical “PageRank” that most people know it as. The variables that I’ve been told place more weight on:
1. Content
2. Links to the Site
3. Relevant Sites Linking to
As of right now this is all the information that I’ve been given. I’ll post more as I’ll be speaking with a representative in 12 hours or so.
UPDATE:Tuesday 9:00am EST
After further conversations, I have just a little more information regarding the new move. One of the compelling reasons the PR is being slashed, is due to the fact of buying links.
This makes complete sense. Google is trying to get rid of purchased links and one of the ways people buy links is based off of PR. You can hop over to DigitalPoint and see numerous threads of people buying links based solely off of PR. Now it appears Google wants webmaster to purchase text links based off of traffic, not just PR.
To address some concerns mentioned in the comments:
The PageRank Toolbar will show nothing. Thats the point their trying to drive home.
