Thread by @noelcetaSEO

Tracked resource allocation across 12 successful SEO campaigns.

Found consistent pattern in what actually drives results. And what’s mostly wasted spend.

The optimal budget split is data-driven, not arbitrary.

Here’s how top-performing campaigns consistently allocate $15K–25K/month: 🧵👇

1/ The allocation framework:

Where to spend:

Based on 12 campaigns averaging $15K-25K/month budgets:

Content production: 40-45%
Technical SEO: 20-25%
Link building: 20-25%
Tools and software: 8-10%
Analytics and reporting: 5-8%

This split consistently delivered best ROI across different industries.

2/ Content production breakdown (40-45%):

Largest investment:

What it covers:

- Article writing and editing
- Content strategy and planning
- Graphics and visual assets
- Video production (if applicable)

Why so high:

- Content is primary ranking factor
- Requires ongoing production
- Quality content = natural links
- Drives conversions

Typical output at this level: 15-20 articles per month.

3/ Technical SEO allocation (20-25%):

Foundation maintenance:

What it funds:

- Site speed optimization
- Core Web Vitals fixes
- Schema markup implementation
- Mobile optimization
- Technical audits and fixes

Why this much:

- Technical issues kill rankings
- Ongoing maintenance needed
- Algorithm updates require adaptation
- Foundation for content success

Not one-time work. Continuous optimization required.

4/ Link building investment (20-25%):

Authority building:

What it includes:

- Outreach campaigns (time and tools)
- Digital PR efforts
- Content promotion
- Relationship building
- Link prospect research

Why equal to technical:

- Links still major ranking factor
- Quality over quantity focus
- Relationship-based approach takes time
- Compounds over months

Target: 8-15 quality links per month at this budget level.

5/ Tools and software (8-10%):

Essential stack:

What this covers:

- Ahrefs or Semrush ($200-400/month)
- Rank tracking ($100-200/month)
- Technical SEO tools ($50-100/month)
- Content optimization ($100-200/month)
- Misc tools and subscriptions

Why not more:

- Tools enable work, don't do work
- Diminishing returns past basics
- Most value from execution, not tools

Core stack adequate. Don't over-invest here.

6/ Analytics and reporting (5-8%):

Measurement and insights:

What it funds:

- Performance tracking and dashboards
- Monthly reporting creation
- Data analysis and insights
- Strategy adjustments
- Client communication

Why not more:

- Important but not primary driver
- Automate where possible
- Focus on action, not just reporting

Enough to stay informed, not excessive.

7/ Resource allocation works when:

✓ Content prioritized (40-45%, drives rankings)
✓ Technical maintained (20-25%, foundation solid)
✓ Links systematic (20-25%, authority builds)
✓ Tools sufficient (8-10%, enable work)
✓ Reporting efficient (5-8%, inform strategy)

Based on 12 campaigns with $15K-25K/month budgets
Average results: 180-250% traffic increase within 12 months

Allocation matters as much as total budget.