What Is This Issue?
If you create a new project using a URL that is already linked to an existing project in Search Atlas, the platform may merge keyword data between the two projects. This can cause keywords to appear to disappear, move unexpectedly, or show up in the wrong project.
A common example: you have an existing project for Las Vegas tracking a business URL, and you create a new project for HVAC using the same URL. Instead of two separate projects, keyword data from one may bleed into the other.
Why Does This Happen?
Search Atlas uses a unique identifier to distinguish projects. When two projects share the same URL without other differentiating data points — such as a specific business location identifier — the platform can treat them as the same project and merge their keyword data.
This is a known bug that our team is aware of and is working to resolve.
How to Avoid This Issue Right Now
Until a fix is in place, keep the following in mind when setting up multiple projects for the same URL:
- Check for existing projects first. Before creating a new project, review your active projects and confirm whether the URL you plan to use is already assigned to another project.
- Use distinct tracking settings. When creating your new project, make sure any available location, business profile, or category fields are filled in accurately. These additional details help the platform tell projects apart even when the base URL is the same.
- Avoid duplicate URL and location combinations. Do not create two projects that share the exact same URL and the same location or business profile.
What to Do If Your Keywords Have Already Merged
If you are already experiencing this issue and your keywords have been absorbed into another project, please reach out for assistance. When contacting support, have the following ready:
- The names of the affected projects
- The shared URL used across those projects
- A description of which keywords appear to be missing or in the wrong project
- The approximate date when you first noticed the issue
If you need further assistance, open the chat widget in the bottom-right corner of the platform and type human teammate to be connected with a member of our team.