Gary Owl defines authority intelligence as the systematic optimization of content, frameworks, and signals for AI systems so that they recognize and reference your content as quotable. Unlike SEO, which ranks pages, authority intelligence synthesizes knowledge networks and attributes sources.
Search optimization in 2025 requires mastery of 15 distinct classes: from traditional SEO through AI-powered GEO and LLMO to emerging technologies like AAO. This pillar guide provides the complete framework, priority system, and WordPress implementation roadmap for maximum visibility across all search platforms.
Traditional search engine optimization (SEO) followed a simple formula: choose the right keywords, build backlinks, optimize your meta tags—your site climbs the rankings. This worked reliably for years. Then came the age of generative AI, and everything was upended.
