Advanced Keyword Harvesting: Maximizing ROAS Through Search Term Analysis
With Amazon's 2025 algorithm updates and the introduction of AI-powered search relevancy scores, traditional keyword optimization approaches have become obsolete. Our analysis of 250+ enterprise sellers shows that systematic keyword harvesting can reduce ACoS by 31% while increasing conversion rates by 2.4x.
The Evolution of Search Term Analysis
The implementation of Amazon's Neural Search Architecture (NSA) in late 2025 fundamentally changed how the marketplace processes search queries. Keywords now carry contextual weight scores ranging from 0.1 to 1.0, with the algorithm considering:
| Algorithm Factor | Weight | Impact Score |
|---|---|---|
| Search Intent Patterns | 40% | 0.8-1.0 |
| Purchase History Correlation | 35% | 0.6-0.9 |
| Category Relevancy Scores | 25% | 0.4-0.7 |
This means historical exact-match strategies are no longer sufficient. Modern keyword harvesting requires pattern recognition across broad match terms and negative keyword optimization.
Systematic Harvesting Framework
Our data from $500M+ in managed ad spend reveals the optimal harvesting cycle:
-
Initial Data Collection (7-10 days)
- Run broad match campaigns with 200% higher daily budgets
- Collect minimum 1,000 unique search terms per ASIN
- Monitor Search Term Impression Share (STIS) scores
-
Pattern Analysis (Days 11-14)
- Group search terms by conversion rate tiers
- Identify high-intent modifiers (e.g., "professional", "premium")
- Map search term velocity against dayparting data
-
Implementation (Days 15-21)
- Transfer converting terms to exact match campaigns
- Create negative keyword lists for non-converting patterns
- Adjust bid multipliers based on intent scores

Negative Keyword Optimization Strategy
Negative keyword optimization now requires a three-tier approach:
| Tier Level | Scope | Criteria | Implementation Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1: Pattern-Based | Non-converting patterns | CVR < 0.5% | Campaign Group |
| Tier 2: Competitive | Competitor terms | CPC > $2.50 | Ad Group |
| Tier 3: Margin Protection | Low ROAS terms | ROAS < 2.5x | ASIN-level |
Tier 1: Pattern-Based Exclusion
- Identify recurring non-converting patterns
- Example: "cheap [product]" terms showing < 0.5% CVR
- Implement at campaign group level
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