About Hobo Web

Disclosure. We use Generative AI to help us provide much more detailed information on our services, based on our detailed documentation, so you, the customer, can get a clear picture of what we offer. The following post was created by Gemini (and fact-checked and edited by Shaun Anderson of Hobo Web on April 26 2025. For full and transparent disclosure on how we generate content on the Hobo Web website, see our Editorial Policy.

The fastest way to contact our representative is through X (formerly Twitter). This is the only channel he has notifications turned on for. If he didn’t do that, it would be impossible to operate. He endeavours to view all emails by the end of the day, UK time. LinkedIn is checked every few days. Please note that Facebook messages are checked much less frequently.

You can also contact Shaun directly by email.

Hobo Web is a UK-based developer specialising in creating innovative SEO reporting software designed for the specific needs of modern digital professionals.

The company’s core mission revolves around providing tools that empower professional Search Engine Optimisers (SEOS), website development managers, and marketing agencies to deliver effective SEO services and reporting more efficiently.

Mission Statement

Our mission statement: “Hobo Web seeks to empower SEO professionals, agencies and businesses with affordable, practical software solutions integrated with Google Workspace, enabling efficient, data-driven optimisation aligned with ethical best practices. We simplify complex SEO analysis and reporting by providing low-cost, automated tools within Google Sheets and Docs, ensuring user control, data privacy, and alignment with Google quality guidelines. At all times, we seek to align any website with Google Quality Evaluator Guidelines and official Google documentation and never promote practices that could harm your website’s reputation in Google.”

Works in Google Workspace

A defining characteristic of Hobo Web’s software is its integration within the Google Workspace ecosystem. Note that Hobo is not affiliated with Google or any third party not specified in our affiliate and partnerships policy. Google does not partner with companies in this fashion, although we must abide by their terms when providing services in Worspace, and you must also agree to do so when 

The tools are built to operate primarily within Google Sheets and Google Docs. These tools are specifically built within Google’s service terms.

This deliberate platform choice is fundamental to the company’s value proposition. By leveraging these familiar environments, Hobo Web ensures its solutions are inherently private, reliable, and secure, as user data remains within their own Google accounts.

This approach directly addresses potential concerns about data sovereignty and confidentiality often associated with third-party platforms.

Furthermore, this architecture contributes to offering low-cost solutions, helping professionals save both time and money when managing SEO tasks and client reporting.

The tools are crafted to streamline complex processes, automating reporting and analysis to enhance productivity for users managing diverse website portfolios.

The journey so far

The origins of Hobo Web trace back to March 2006, when Shaun Anderson launched the Hobo website. This marked the beginning of what would become a highly respected resource in the SEO community.

Shaun Anderson took on the role of senior SEO consultant at Hobo in 2007 and currently serves as the Head of SEO, bringing years of dedicated experience to the company’s leadership.

This extensive background is reflected in resources like the Hobo Premium SEO Checklist, which has been developed over a period of 20 years, showcasing a long-term commitment to understanding and mastering the intricacies of search engine optimisation.

Central to Hobo Web’s growth and reputation is the Hobo SEO Blog, written and edited by Shaun Anderson.

This blog has become a cornerstone of the company’s identity, attracting over 8 million visitors and cultivating a loyal following, with subscriber numbers exceeding 70,000. Testimonials frequently praise the blog for offering “real seo” insights based on “real-world research”.

This platform established Hobo Web’s authority and trustworthiness, demonstrating a deep understanding of SEO principles and practices long before the development of its software suite.

The creation of Hobo Web’s specialised SEO tools represents a natural evolution, translating the extensive knowledge and practical experience gained through consultancy and content creation into tangible solutions.

Shaun Anderson is the creator of key products, including the Hobo SEO Dashboard, SEO Auditor, EEAT Tool, and the Premium SEO Checklist.

These tools are not merely software products; they are the embodiment of years of practical application and a direct response to the needs and challenges observed within the SEO industry.

They originate from a foundation of established expertise and a commitment to providing genuinely useful resources to the professional community cultivated over many years.

Our Philosophy

Hobo Web operates under a clear philosophy centred on ethical practices, practical application, and user empowerment.

A core tenet is the commitment to “white hat” SEO, strictly adhering to Google Webmaster recommendations and guidelines.

This principle underscores the belief in achieving sustainable, long-term results through legitimate means, focusing on quality, relevance, and positive user experience rather than manipulative tactics.

The emphasis is on building websites that genuinely serve user needs and meet Google’s technical standards.

This commitment extends beyond theory into practical application.

Testimonials consistently highlight the comprehensive and actionable nature of Hobo Web’s resources and tools, contrasting them favourably with superficial or purely theoretical advice.

The company prioritises providing methods grounded in extensive testing and real-world client experience.

While not explicitly stated as formal values, the company’s actions and offerings clearly reflect a dedication to:

• Efficiency: Designing tools with automation features that save professionals significant time and financial resources.
• Privacy & Security: Prioritising user data control by operating within the secure Google Workspace environment.
• Expertise & Authority: Building solutions based on deep, long-standing industry knowledge and continuous research.
• Transparency: Sharing detailed information and maintaining open communication, as noted positively by clients.
• Empowerment: Providing professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary to gain control over their SEO processes and achieve success.

This operational philosophy is directly embedded within the product design.

The existence of the Hobo EEAT Tool, specifically created to help users align with Google’s Quality Rater Guidelines, demonstrates the tangible link between the company’s ethical stance and its product development.

Similarly, the automation built into the SEO Auditor and Dashboard directly addresses the value placed on efficiency.

The foundational choice of Google Sheets and Docs as the platform manifests the commitment to user privacy and data security.

Therefore, the tools themselves serve as functional proof of the principles guiding Hobo Web.

The Hobo Web SEO Suite

Hobo Web offers a suite of specialised SEO tools operating within the familiar and secure environment of Google Sheets and Google Docs.

This unique approach combines powerful automation and insightful analysis with the inherent benefits of user control and data privacy.

Designed by an experienced SEO practitioner of over 2 decades for fellow professionals, these tools address critical aspects of modern search engine optimisation.

Hobo SEO Auditor

• Purpose: Specifically designed to monitor and clarify the impact of Google Algorithm Updates on a website’s organic traffic.
• Mechanism: Functions as an automated ‘robot’ within Google Sheets, connecting directly to the user’s Google Search Console account. It requires no complex API configuration; users simply grant access. The tool highlights upward and downward trends in traffic, correlating them with known algorithm updates.
• Benefit: Removes the uncertainty often associated with diagnosing traffic fluctuations following Google updates, providing clear insights securely within the user’s Google Sheets.
• Model: Available via a Pay-Per-Month subscription.
• Target User: Ideal for businesses or professional SEOS and website managers who need a straightforward way to track and understand the effects of Google’s algorithmic changes on their site’s performance without the challenge of setting up API access.

Hobo SEO Dashboard Multi-Site

• Purpose: A comprehensive, professional SEO audit reporting system built for efficiently managing multiple websites.
• Mechanism: Operates entirely within Google Sheets and utilises Gmail for report distribution. This automated system autonomously cycles through all websites linked in a user’s Google Search Console account, generating unique, sophisticated SEO reports for each property. It can be configured to automatically email tailored reports to clients according to a predefined schedule.
• Benefit: Offers substantial time savings for agencies and professionals managing large portfolios, providing full control over the SEO auditing and reporting process. It serves as a cost-effective alternative to expensive third-party SEO platforms. Already trusted by over 350 users managing tens of thousands of sites.
• Model: Offered with lifetime access, eliminating recurring subscription fees.
• Target User: Built specifically for website development companies, digital marketing agencies, and SEO professionals responsible for numerous client or company websites.

Hobo EEAT Tool

• Purpose: Assists website owners and SEOS in aligning their sites with Google’s critical Quality Rater Guidelines, with a particular focus on demonstrating Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trust (E.E.A.T.).
• Mechanism: Functions within Google Sheets and publishes reports and policy drafts to Google Docs. The tool helps generate the necessary website policies required by local laws and Google’s guidelines, providing drafts and guidance on optimal placement.
• Benefit: Provides a quick and low-cost method to address essential E.E.A.T. criteria, helping to safeguard against potential traffic loss resulting from non-compliance with Google’s quality standards. Used by almost 100 users.
• Model: Available for purchase (early-bird access mentioned, £99 on Early Bird Presale).
• Target User: Essential for website owners, content managers, and SEOs focused on ensuring their website meets Google’s quality expectations, particularly regarding E.E.A.T. signals.

Hobo Premium SEO Checklist

• Purpose: A comprehensive collection of templates and checklists designed to guide users through all facets of modern SEO, ensuring alignment with Google Webmaster Guidelines.
• Mechanism: Delivered as a detailed resource within Google Sheets, drawing on over 20 years of SEO experience and development. It provides a structured framework for auditing and improving website optimisation.
• Benefit: Sets a high standard for SEO execution, serving as a complete framework for identifying issues and implementing fixes to address SEO-related traffic loss. Highly regarded, with testimonials calling it “absolutely killer/comprehensive”. Used by over 500 users, including globally recognised SEO experts and businesses.
• Model: Available for purchase (likely a one-time purchase model).
• Target User: Suitable for a wide range of users, including technical SEO students seeking structured learning, SEO managers implementing best practices, and business owners aiming to ensure their website’s compliance and performance.

Hobo Web SEO Tool Suite Overview

Tool Name	Primary Function	Platform	Key Benefit	Target User	Pricing Model
Hobo SEO Auditor	Monitor Algorithm Impact	Google Sheets	Easy Diagnosis	SEOS, Managers	Monthly Subscription
Hobo SEO Dashboard Multi-Site	Automated Multi-Site Reporting	Google Sheets/Gmail	Time Savings, Control	Agencies, Professionals	Lifetime Access
Hobo EEAT Tool	Ensure E.E.A.T. Compliance	Google Sheets/Docs	Guideline Alignment	Owners, SEOS	Yearly Subscription
Hobo Premium SEO Checklist	Comprehensive SEO Framework	Google Sheets	Guideline Alignment, Fixes	Students, Managers, Owners	Purchase

Why Choose Hobo Web?

Selecting Hobo Web provides access to a unique combination of deep expertise, practical tools, and a commitment to user success, privacy, and ethical practices. The key differentiators include:

• Proven Expertise: Led by Shaun Anderson, with experience dating back to 2006 delivering website design development and seo service, Hobo Web’s foundation is built on years of dedicated SEO practice and research. This depth of knowledge is consistently recognised by users and reflected in the quality of the resources and tools offered.
• Practical, Actionable Tools: The software suite is designed for real-world application, addressing core tasks like algorithm impact analysis, multi-site reporting, E.E.A.T. compliance, and comprehensive guideline adherence. They are praised for being thorough and grounded in practical needs.
• Efficiency & Automation: Hobo Web tools are engineered to save professionals valuable time and resources, particularly through automation features in reporting and analysis, enabling users to focus on strategic initiatives.
• Privacy & Control: The unique integration with Google Workspace offers unparalleled user control over data and enhanced security compared to many external platforms.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Positioned as “low-cost” solutions, Hobo Web offers significant value, particularly through lifetime access options for tools like the SEO Dashboard, providing long-term benefits without ongoing subscription costs for certain products.
• Transparency & Trust: Client testimonials frequently highlight the company’s transparency and the trustworthiness of its advice. This is reinforced by the detailed, regularly updated content shared via the Hobo SEO Blog.
• Focus on Results: Ultimately, the value of Hobo Web is demonstrated through tangible outcomes. Clients consistently report positive results, including significant ranking improvements (e.g., moving from page 43 to the top of search results), steady traffic growth, successful recovery from SEO setbacks, and long-term performance gains that exceed expectations.

Choosing Hobo Web offers more than just access to powerful SEO software; it represents a partnership grounded in proven expertise, ethical practices, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by SEO professionals.

 It provides confidence and control through solutions designed with user privacy, budget, and efficiency firmly in mind.

Connect and Grow with Hobo Web

Explore the specific capabilities of the Hobo SEO Auditor, Hobo SEO Dashboard Multi-Site, Hobo EEAT Tool, and Hobo Premium SEO Checklist to discover how they can enhance your SEO workflow and results.

Join a community of over 70,000 professionals who receive free SEO training and insights by subscribing to the Hobo Web newsletter.

Stay informed on the latest developments in SEO and learn how to leverage Hobo Web’s resources effectively.

Hobo Web provides the practical, reliable, and cost-effective tools and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of modern search engine optimisation. Partner with Hobo Web to achieve sustainable growth and elevate your SEO performance.