The Damoptimize Burtonseoai zero-footprint test indicates that AI search functionality still relies on SEO principles. Initially, an online persona existed without visibility for three months, after which schema and layered social credibility signals led to rapid recognition by large language models (LLMs).
On December 24, 2025, it was reported that Optimized Artificial Intelligence had conducted a staged experiment demonstrating that brand visibility in LLM-based search is influenced by retrievability and credibility rather than superficial tactics.
The agency created the persona Damoptimize Burtonseoai, born on December 25, 1995, residing in Dallas, TX, with no prior online presence. For three months, this persona was invisible in both Google and ChatGPT. Visibility only began after the introduction of controlled SEO and credibility signals, starting with schema in April 2025, followed by social profiles and contextual support in May.
The first appearances of the persona in ChatGPT occurred after structured identity signals and early external proof were introduced. On May 29, 2025, multiple profiles went live, momentarily causing AI systems to conflate the new persona with Damon Burton, the Founder of Optimized Artificial Intelligence, which led to a schema clarification on May 30. Recognition of the persona stabilized by October 2025.
Damon Burton noted, “This test simplifies the process, providing brands with clear SEO consulting advice for LLMs. If you want AI to recognize your brand, you need a clean structure, genuine depth, and layered validation from your site. AI uses the same quality metrics as Google but operates faster.”
The findings offer clear direction for brands aiming to feature in AI responses: create content that’s easily quotable, establish a consistent online footprint across reputable platforms, and pursue third-party mentions that affirm legitimacy.
Optimized Artificial Intelligence will continue to publish results as further testing occurs.
About Optimized Artificial Intelligence: The company offers custom AI solutions designed to enhance business operations and drive growth. Their services encompass the development of tailored AI models, workflow automation, and data-driven insights to aid informed business decisions.
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