Online businesses should use keyword-laden domain names in a bid to improve their online visibility, it has been suggested.

Writing for Search Engine Watch, IT commentator Josh McCoy said URL web addresses are more efficient for search purposes if they are keyword optimised.

He stated: "Having a keyword-rich domain name and creating a sound information architecture followed by proper page naming conventions can put you on the fast-track for search engine optimisation (SEO) success."

Mr McCoy claimed that residing at a keyword-rich domain "will give you instant authority out of the gate".

He noted that the initial investment in SEO will be rewarded with a strong return on investment once the website is up and running.

As a result, companies of all sizes are able to tap into the benefits of keyword-optimised SEO, he suggested.

According to the Daily Telegraph Business Club this week, keyword research is one of the cornerstones of making money through SEO.

However, the editorial claimed that many businesses are still failing to get to grips with the technique.