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  • The brief
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  • This quarter · 10
  • Big bets · 3
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Generated Oct 26, 2026
  1. Programmable
  2. Playbooks
  3. Forthea
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growth playbook · Oct 26, 2026

forthea.com (opens in a new tab)

Forthea growth playbook

Diagnosis

Forthea is an award-heavy agency (PPC Agency of the Year four years running, an award-winning SaaS SEO campaign) that is adding AI-search services and hiring a Director of Sales and a Marketing Project Coordinator for up-sells and renewals.

Its site hides its best proof: the SaaS page features an IT training firm instead of the award-winning Mitratech result, no industry page shows the new AI-search wins, the Dallas page leads with a 2020 lease-up, and the four-in-a-row award is not on the homepage.

This playbook fixes the proof first, adds an AEO up-sell review, self-booked calls and clean job posts, then builds a free AI answer check, trigger outreach, a franchise budget model, quarterly AI-search studies and a SaaS push, with an AI Visibility Index product, Austin and partners as big bets.

Growth Score

6/10

Biggest Opportunity

Lead with the AI-search results Forthea already has, both on the site and in reviews with current clients, as buyers move budget to AI answers.

Biggest Risk

Large agencies such as Directive and Power Digital compete for the same budgets with heavy content; if Forthea's proof stays buried, buyers will not see why it is different.

01

Start here

The three moves to make first. Each one is written up in full below.

  1. 1

    Put Mitratech on the Software + SaaS page, and give every industry page its newest, strongest result

    Replace the featured result on the Software + SaaS page with Mitratech.

    High impact First result in 2 weeks
  2. 2

    An AI-search add-on review for every current SEO and PPC client

    List clients with no AEO service and their renewal dates.

    High impact First result in 1 month
  3. 3

    Let prospects book the strategy call themselves

    Add a booking link to the form thank-you page.

    High impact First result in 2 weeks

02

Your idea portfolio

21 ideas, grouped by when to run them. Open any idea for how to run it: the steps, who to approach, copy you can use, and how to measure it.

  • 6 ideas are marked Unexpected: plays you are unlikely to have tried.

    1 of these are things Programmable can build and run for you.

Every idea placed by the effort it takes against the impact it could have. Quick wins sit top left; select a number to open that idea. The filters below narrow the list by status, timing, category and what Programmable can build.

Effort vs impactEach number is an idea. Select one to open it.
Impact →
Quick wins · 3Big bets · 9Fill-ins · 8Reconsider · 1
Effort →

Showing 21 of 21 ideas

This week 6

Quick wins with a clear first action.

  • 01

    Forthea's Software + SaaS page features an IT training company, New Horizons, and links no SaaS case study. Yet Forthea's best SaaS proof is award-winning: Mitratech, a B2B SaaS company, saw 231% more demo requests, twice the organic revenue and a 300% rise in AI answers, and won Silver for Best SEO Campaign. It is the only case study tagged Software + SaaS and it has no meta description. The same pattern runs across the site: none of the newer AI-search results is featured on an industry page. The new Director of Sales is hired to improve case studies and collateral; this is the fastest fix.

    High impactLow effort First result in 2 weeks Director of Sales

    First action

    Replace the featured result on the Software + SaaS page with Mitratech.

    How to measure it

    Consultation requests from industry pages

    Now
    –
    Target
    +30%
    By
    1 quarter

    Steps

    1. 1

      SaaS swap

      Mitratech as the featured result, with demo-request numbers.

      Web Developer 2 hours

    2. 2

      Meta description

      Write one for the Mitratech case study.

      SEO Specialist 15 minutes

    3. 3

      Proof grid

      Newest and strongest result for each of ten industries.

      Director of Sales 1 day

    4. 4

      AI-search proof

      Add an AEO result where one exists.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance 1 day

    5. 5

      Related links

      Two case studies per industry page.

      Web Developer 1 day

    6. 6

      Proof sheet

      One page for proposals and renewals.

      Marketing Project Coordinator 2 days

    7. 7

      Measure

      Form fills from each industry page.

      Analytics Lead monthly

    First result
    2 weeks
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Director of Sales

    Smallest test

    Swap the SaaS page result today and watch its form fills for a month.

    Why it works

    Swap the SaaS page's featured result for Mitratech (demo requests, organic revenue, AI answers) and add a meta description to the case study. Then make a proof grid: for each of the ten industry pages, pick the newest and strongest result, add a second "AI search" result where one exists (Paul Davis Milwaukee for residential services, GMN Bearing and the industrial roundup for B2B), and link two related case studies. Give sales and the project coordinator the same grid as a one-page proof sheet for proposals.

    Visitors from SaaS companies see a peer with the metric they care about (demo requests), and every industry page shows that Forthea already wins in AI search, the service buyers are now asking about.

    Ready to use

    ChecklistIndustry proof grid

    Industry / current featured result / newest result / AI-search result / two related case studies
    Software + SaaS / New Horizons / Mitratech / Mitratech / ...
    B2B / CEMEX / industrial roundup / GMN Bearing / ...
    Home services / The Repipe Company / Paul Davis franchise / Paul Davis Milwaukee / ...
    Repeat for legal, finance, medical, e-commerce, automotive, multifamily, oil + gas

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Client approval for new placements

      Use results already published on the site.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteThe Software + SaaS industry page promises to "accelerate demand by attracting and converting qualified leads", but its featured result and only case-study link is New Horizons Learning Group, an IT training company ("753% increase in organic conversions"). It does not link the Mitratech case study.Source
    • Your websiteMitratech case study, the only one of 41 case studies tagged "Software + SaaS": a "fast-growing B2B SaaS company in compliance, HR, and legal software"; results "300% increase in AI answers", "231% increase in demo requests", "2X increase in organic revenue", "85% increase in non-brand keyword rankings". It is also the only case study with no meta description (checked October 23, 2026).Source
    • Your websiteIndustry pages (10 in the menu) each feature one result: B2B shows CEMEX "37x return on ad spend"; Home Builders + Residential Services shows The Repipe Company "700% increase in YoY conversions"; Legal shows Raizner Slania "241% increase in conversions"; Finance shows Wellby "47% increase in MQLs"; Oil + Gas shows NOV. The newer AI-search results (Paul Davis Milwaukee, GMN Bearing, Mitratech) are not featured on any of them.Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source
    • HiringDirector of Sales (Houston; posting updated August 26, 2026 and listed on the careers page): "Create and implement both marketing and sales (M&S) plans", "Improve M&S collateral and processes (e.g. sales presentations, case studies, proposals, reports...)", "Lay the foundation for a future M&S team", and "You must be awesome at opening doors, and getting appointments from a cold start."Source
    • Your websiteNews, February 5, 2026: Forthea was named PPC Agency of the Year for the fourth consecutive year at the 2025 US Agency Awards, "the first agency to achieve this feat in the awards' history", and won Silver for Best SEO Campaign for its work with Mitratech; it describes its aim as being the "McKinsey of Marketing".Source
  • 02

    The new Marketing Project Coordinator will review account performance, propose up-sells and prepare renewals. Forthea now sells AI Visibility Audits and AEO, with results like Paul Davis Milwaukee going from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances. Existing clients who buy only PPC or classic SEO are the easiest buyers for the new service.

    High impactLow effort First result in 1 month Marketing Project Coordinator

    First action

    List clients with no AEO service and their renewal dates.

    How to measure it

    Clients adding AEO

    Now
    –
    Target
    10
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      List

      Clients without AEO, by renewal date.

      Marketing Project Coordinator 1 day

    2. 2

      Check

      Five money queries each in AI answers.

      SEO Specialist 1 week

    3. 3

      Package

      Fixed-price add-on.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance 2 days

    4. 4

      Talking points

      One page per client.

      Marketing Project Coordinator ongoing

    5. 5

      Present

      At the next review.

      Account Director / Group Lead ongoing

    6. 6

      Track

      Add-ons and revenue.

      Marketing Project Coordinator monthly

    First result
    1 month
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Marketing Project Coordinator

    Smallest test

    Run the check for five clients renewing next quarter.

    Why it works

    List clients without AEO, run a light AI-visibility check for each (do they appear in AI answers for five money queries; do competitors), and bring the result to their next review with a fixed-price add-on.

    Clients already trust the team, and seeing a rival named in an AI answer is a strong reason to act.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Clients feel up-sold

      Lead with the finding, not the price.

    Evidence

    • HiringMarketing Project Coordinator (Houston, posted September 23, 2026): "Review account performance and present suggestions and proposals for up-sells", "Support the Account Lead on renewals by tracking renewal dates, pulling performance results, and preparing talking points", "Help write proposals for new services, add-ons, and upgrades" and "Proactively monitor and report on client success to internal teams".Source
    • Your websiteAEO service page: "Request an AI Audit"; services listed are AI Visibility Audit, Search Everywhere Strategy (SEOx), AEO, Content Mapping & LLM Training, Competitive Analysis, and AEO Analysis + Reporting; a quote from a "B2B SaaS Client // CMO". There are separate AEO and GEO pages, and a downloads page with a Multifamily AEO Cheat Sheet and a 2026 Multifamily Marketing Trends Report.Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source
  • 03

    The "Get My Strategy" path promises a reply within one business day, then a consultation, then a proposal. A prospect comparing agencies may book with the one that offers a time slot first; Ignite Visibility, for example, leads with "Get a free proposal today!"

    High impactLow effort First result in 2 weeks Director of Sales

    First action

    Add a booking link to the form thank-you page.

    How to measure it

    Form-to-meeting rate

    Now
    –
    Target
    +25%
    By
    1 quarter

    Steps

    1. 1

      Tool

      HubSpot meetings.

      Marketing Operations 1 day

    2. 2

      Routing

      By service and industry.

      Director of Sales 1 day

    3. 3

      Thank-you page

      Calendar step.

      Web Developer 1 day

    4. 4

      Confirmation

      With two case studies.

      Marketing Operations 1 day

    5. 5

      Speed rule

      One-hour call-back.

      Director, Business Development ongoing

    6. 6

      Measure

      Meetings per form.

      Analytics Lead monthly

    First result
    2 weeks
    Cost
    Existing tools
    Owner
    Director of Sales

    Smallest test

    Offer booking on the thank-you page for one month.

    Why it works

    Add a calendar step after the form (15 or 30 minutes with a strategist, by service), send a confirmation with two relevant case studies, and call any lead who does not book within an hour during work hours.

    Fast, self-booked meetings raise lead-to-meeting rates and give the new Director of Sales more first meetings.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Unqualified bookings

      Ask budget range on the form.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteHomepage: headline "Helping Others Succeed", "We just happen to be digital marketers"; main call to action "Get My Strategy" and a phone number; one client quote (Hanover Company); a "Just launched" web project. The consultation page says "we'll get back to you within one business day", then an "Obligation-Free Consultation", then "We'll send a proposal".Source
    • HiringDirector of Sales (Houston; posting updated August 26, 2026 and listed on the careers page): "Create and implement both marketing and sales (M&S) plans", "Improve M&S collateral and processes (e.g. sales presentations, case studies, proposals, reports...)", "Lay the foundation for a future M&S team", and "You must be awesome at opening doors, and getting appointments from a cold start."Source
    • Competitor researchRivals' own homepages: Directive, "Customer Generation methodology. 420+ brands served, $1B+ revenue" for B2B; Power Digital, "data-driven marketing strategies that make profit predictable"; Ignite Visibility, "custom SEO, PPC, paid social, and CRO. Get a free proposal today!"Source
  • 04

    Forthea serves Dallas with an in-person team, but its Dallas page features a lease-up during the pandemic for a complex that opened in 2020. A 2026 Dallas prospect reads it as old news.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 2 weeks Director

    First action

    Pick the newest DFW client result.

    How to measure it

    Dallas leads

    Now
    –
    Target
    +20%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Find result

      Newest DFW client.

      Account Director / Group Lead 1 day

    2. 2

      Update page

      Featured result.

      Web Developer 2 hours

    3. 3

      Add proof

      Two logos or quotes.

      Director, Business Development 1 week

    4. 4

      Team

      Dallas team photos.

      Web Developer 1 day

    5. 5

      Local SEO

      Google Business Profile link.

      SEO Specialist 1 day

    6. 6

      Measure

      Dallas leads.

      Analytics Lead monthly

    First result
    2 weeks
    Cost
    $0
    Owner
    Director, Business Development

    Smallest test

    Swap the featured result today.

    Why it works

    Replace it with the newest result from a Dallas-Fort Worth client (or the newest Texas multifamily or B2B result), add two Dallas client logos or quotes, and add the Dallas team's faces and address.

    Local pages convert on recent local proof, and the change is quick.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • No recent DFW result

      Use a recent Texas result.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteAreas We Serve has pages for Houston and Dallas only ("Explore Our Reach" redirects to the index). The Dallas page's featured result is "Multifamily Leasing up During a Pandemic" for a complex that opened in 2020.Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source
  • 05

    Forthea is the first agency to win PPC Agency of the Year four years running, but the homepage leads with "Helping Others Succeed" and the record sits in a news post and one of about 90 award pages.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 2 weeks Marketing Manager

    First action

    Add the award line under the homepage headline.

    How to measure it

    Homepage conversion

    Now
    –
    Target
    +10%
    By
    1 quarter

    Steps

    1. 1

      Copy

      One line and badge.

      Marketing Manager 1 hour

    2. 2

      Homepage

      Under the headline.

      Web Developer 1 hour

    3. 3

      Consultation page

      Next to the form.

      Web Developer 1 hour

    4. 4

      Ads

      Award in ad copy.

      Paid Media Specialist 1 day

    5. 5

      Deck

      Sales slide.

      Director of Sales 1 hour

    6. 6

      Test

      Conversion before and after.

      Analytics Lead 1 month

    First result
    2 weeks
    Cost
    $0
    Owner
    Marketing Manager

    Smallest test

    Add the line today.

    Why it works

    Put the four-in-a-row award in the homepage hero, the consultation page, paid search ads and the sales deck, with a link to one clean awards page.

    A rare, verifiable distinction is the fastest trust signal for a buyer shortlisting agencies.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Badge clutter

      One award only above the fold.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteNews, February 5, 2026: Forthea was named PPC Agency of the Year for the fourth consecutive year at the 2025 US Agency Awards, "the first agency to achieve this feat in the awards' history", and won Silver for Best SEO Campaign for its work with Mitratech; it describes its aim as being the "McKinsey of Marketing".Source
    • Your websiteHomepage: headline "Helping Others Succeed", "We just happen to be digital marketers"; main call to action "Get My Strategy" and a phone number; one client quote (Hanover Company); a "Just launched" web project. The consultation page says "we'll get back to you within one business day", then an "Obligation-Free Consultation", then "We'll send a proposal".Source
    • Your websiteSitemap (372 URLs): 160 blog posts, with the latest on September 28, 2026 ("The 220 Day Blind Spot in B2B Buying") after a June batch; about 90 award pages under /about/awards/, many from 2013 to 2022; the homepage says its "Ph.D. data scientists uncover deep insights".Source
  • 06

    The careers page lists seven openings, while the job board still carries posts first published in 2021 and 2022. Candidates who find the old ones may apply to roles that are no longer real, and the new HR lead inherits the clean-up.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 2 weeks HR Manager/Director

    First action

    List board roles older than six months.

    How to measure it

    Applications per open role

    Now
    –
    Target
    +20%
    By
    1 quarter

    Steps

    1. 1

      List

      Roles by age.

      HR Manager/Director 1 hour

    2. 2

      Decide

      Close or repost.

      VP, Operations 1 day

    3. 3

      Repost

      Current text and dates.

      HR Manager/Director 1 day

    4. 4

      Sync

      Careers page from the board.

      Web Developer 1 day

    5. 5

      Promote

      LinkedIn for open roles.

      HR Manager/Director ongoing

    6. 6

      Review

      Monthly.

      HR Manager/Director monthly

    First result
    2 weeks
    Cost
    $0
    Owner
    HR Manager/Director

    Smallest test

    Close the 2021 post today.

    Why it works

    Close or repost old roles with current dates and text, make the careers page pull from the board, and add the new coordinator and HR roles there.

    A tidy, current board improves applicant quality and protects the employer brand that wins "best places to work" awards.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Losing evergreen pipeline

      Use one general application instead.

    Evidence

    • HiringAlso hiring an HR Manager/Director (posted September 2026). The careers page lists seven openings (SEO Specialist, Technical SEO, Director of Sales, Paid Media Specialist, Digital Marketing Account Lead, HR Manager, Project Coordinator), while the job board still carries posts first published in 2021 and 2022.Source
    • HiringMarketing Project Coordinator (Houston, posted September 23, 2026): "Review account performance and present suggestions and proposals for up-sells", "Support the Account Lead on renewals by tracking renewal dates, pulling performance results, and preparing talking points", "Help write proposals for new services, add-ons, and upgrades" and "Proactively monitor and report on client success to internal teams".Source

This quarter 10

The core plays for the next three months.

  • 07

    Forthea sells an AI Visibility Audit, but the only route is "Request an AI Audit". Buyers want to know first whether they have a problem.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter Sr. Director

    First action

    Write the ten-question template for one industry.

    How to measure it

    Check-to-audit rate

    Now
    –
    Target
    25%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Template

      Ten questions per industry.

      SEO Specialist 1 week

    2. 2

      Form

      Company, category, competitors.

      Web Developer 2 days

    3. 3

      Report

      One-page design.

      Designer 1 week

    4. 4

      Process

      Two-day turnaround.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance 1 week

    5. 5

      Promote

      Ads, LinkedIn and outreach.

      Director of Sales 1 quarter

    6. 6

      Follow-up

      Call booking.

      Director, Business Development ongoing

    7. 7

      Measure

      Checks to audits to clients.

      Analytics Lead monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time per check
    Owner
    Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance

    Smallest test

    Run ten checks by hand for prospects already in the pipeline.

    Why it works

    Offer a short check: the prospect enters company, category and three competitors; within two business days they receive a one-page report of who appears in AI answers for ten category questions. The report ends with a call booking for the full audit.

    A concrete, personal finding (a competitor named instead of you) is the strongest opening for a sales call, and Director of Sales outreach gets a reason to call.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Too many requests

      Limit to companies above a size.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteAEO service page: "Request an AI Audit"; services listed are AI Visibility Audit, Search Everywhere Strategy (SEOx), AEO, Content Mapping & LLM Training, Competitive Analysis, and AEO Analysis + Reporting; a quote from a "B2B SaaS Client // CMO". There are separate AEO and GEO pages, and a downloads page with a Multifamily AEO Cheat Sheet and a 2026 Multifamily Marketing Trends Report.Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source
    • HiringDirector of Sales (Houston; posting updated August 26, 2026 and listed on the careers page): "Create and implement both marketing and sales (M&S) plans", "Improve M&S collateral and processes (e.g. sales presentations, case studies, proposals, reports...)", "Lay the foundation for a future M&S team", and "You must be awesome at opening doors, and getting appointments from a cold start."Source
  • 08

    The Director of Sales must open doors "from a cold start". Two public triggers fit Forthea's best verticals: companies posting marketing manager roles (they need help now) and new multifamily properties nearing lease-up.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter Director of Sales

    First action

    Pull this week's Houston marketing job posts.

    How to measure it

    Meetings per month

    Now
    –
    Target
    8
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Sources

      Job boards and construction news.

      Director, Business Development 1 week

    2. 2

      Lists

      Weekly pull.

      Director, Business Development weekly

    3. 3

      Templates

      One per trigger.

      Director of Sales 1 week

    4. 4

      Send

      Email and call.

      Director, Business Development weekly

    5. 5

      Proof

      Case study per vertical.

      Marketing Project Coordinator 1 week

    6. 6

      Measure

      Replies and meetings.

      Director of Sales monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time and data tools
    Owner
    Director of Sales

    Smallest test

    Email ten companies hiring marketers this week.

    Why it works

    Build two weekly lists from job boards and local construction news, write short emails with a relevant case study (Hanover, Embrey or Mitratech), and follow up by phone. Track meetings by trigger.

    Timely, relevant outreach gets far higher reply rates than cold lists.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Feels intrusive

      Lead with a useful observation.

    Evidence

    • HiringDirector of Sales (Houston; posting updated August 26, 2026 and listed on the careers page): "Create and implement both marketing and sales (M&S) plans", "Improve M&S collateral and processes (e.g. sales presentations, case studies, proposals, reports...)", "Lay the foundation for a future M&S team", and "You must be awesome at opening doors, and getting appointments from a cold start."Source
    • Your websiteMultifamily is the deepest vertical: a Budget Planning Attribution Model offered as a "30-minute demo", case studies for Embrey, Hanover, Druker and Aspire, a 2026 trends report, an AEO cheat sheet and an AIM multifamily conference page.Source
    • Your websiteMitratech case study, the only one of 41 case studies tagged "Software + SaaS": a "fast-growing B2B SaaS company in compliance, HR, and legal software"; results "300% increase in AI answers", "231% increase in demo requests", "2X increase in organic revenue", "85% increase in non-brand keyword rankings". It is also the only case study with no meta description (checked October 23, 2026).Source
  • 09

    Forthea built a Budget Planning Attribution Model for multifamily and has a strong multi-location franchise result (Paul Davis, 731% ROI with CRM attribution). Franchise marketers face the same question: where to put budget across locations.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 2 quarters Sr. Director

    First action

    List what the multifamily model needs changed for franchises.

    How to measure it

    Franchise model demos

    Now
    –
    Target
    10
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Gap list

      Changes for franchises.

      Analytics Lead 2 weeks

    2. 2

      Build

      Franchise version.

      Analytics Lead 1 quarter

    3. 3

      Page

      Landing page and demo form.

      Web Developer 2 weeks

    4. 4

      Pilot

      With Paul Davis or another client.

      Account Director / Group Lead 1 quarter

    5. 5

      Outreach

      Franchise brands.

      Director of Sales 1 quarter

    6. 6

      Measure

      Demos to clients.

      Director of Sales monthly

    First result
    2 quarters
    Cost
    Analyst time
    Owner
    Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance

    Smallest test

    Run the model by hand for one franchise prospect.

    Why it works

    Adapt the model for franchises and home services: spend by channel and location tied to booked jobs. Offer a 30-minute demo, as with multifamily, and use it in franchise outreach.

    A tool that answers the budget question makes Forthea the analytical choice, and it reuses work already done.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Data access differs by franchise

      Start with CRM-integrated brands.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteMultifamily is the deepest vertical: a Budget Planning Attribution Model offered as a "30-minute demo", case studies for Embrey, Hanover, Druker and Aspire, a 2026 trends report, an AEO cheat sheet and an AIM multifamily conference page.Source
    • Your websiteFranchise work: the Paul Davis multi-location franchise case study ("731% ROI from digital marketing", attribution inside the Paul Davis CRM), a Paul Davis Milwaukee AEO case, a /franchisepartner/ landing page and a 2026 post on franchise growth strategies.Source
  • 10

    Forthea tracks AI Overview appearances and LLM sessions for clients and says its Ph.D. data scientists find "deep insights". The blog's recent posts are mostly guides about Google changes.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter SEO Specialist

    First action

    Pick the first question the client data can answer.

    How to measure it

    Referring domains per study

    Now
    –
    Target
    20
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Question

      One per quarter.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance 1 week

    2. 2

      Data

      Anonymised client tracking.

      Analytics Lead 1 month

    3. 3

      Approvals

      Client consent where needed.

      Account Director / Group Lead 2 weeks

    4. 4

      Write

      Study and charts.

      SEO Specialist 2 weeks

    5. 5

      Launch

      Webinar and press.

      Marketing Manager 1 week

    6. 6

      Sales use

      In proposals.

      Director of Sales ongoing

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Analyst time
    Owner
    SEO Specialist

    Smallest test

    Publish one chart from current tracking.

    Why it works

    Each quarter, publish an anonymised study (which industries appear most in AI answers, how often AI Overviews show for local services, what changed after a core update), with charts and a short webinar.

    Original data earns links, press and AI citations, and proves the AEO service better than another guide.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Client data sensitivity

      Aggregate only.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteSitemap (372 URLs): 160 blog posts, with the latest on September 28, 2026 ("The 220 Day Blind Spot in B2B Buying") after a June batch; about 90 award pages under /about/awards/, many from 2013 to 2022; the homepage says its "Ph.D. data scientists uncover deep insights".Source
    • Your websiteAEO service page: "Request an AI Audit"; services listed are AI Visibility Audit, Search Everywhere Strategy (SEOx), AEO, Content Mapping & LLM Training, Competitive Analysis, and AEO Analysis + Reporting; a quote from a "B2B SaaS Client // CMO". There are separate AEO and GEO pages, and a downloads page with a Multifamily AEO Cheat Sheet and a 2026 Multifamily Marketing Trends Report.Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source
  • 11

    Forthea won Silver for Best SEO Campaign with Mitratech, and Directive is a large B2B agency competing for the same SaaS budgets. Forthea has one SaaS case study and a SaaS page that does not use it.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 2 quarters Director of Sales

    First action

    Write the SaaS offer on one page.

    How to measure it

    SaaS opportunities

    Now
    –
    Target
    10
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Offer

      Three-part SaaS package.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance 2 weeks

    2. 2

      Page

      Rewrite the SaaS page around it.

      Web Developer 1 week

    3. 3

      Cases

      Two more SaaS stories.

      Account Director / Group Lead 1 quarter

    4. 4

      Ads

      LinkedIn to SaaS marketing leaders.

      Paid Media Specialist 1 quarter

    5. 5

      Outreach

      Texas SaaS list.

      Director, Business Development 1 quarter

    6. 6

      Measure

      Pipeline by vertical.

      Director of Sales monthly

    First result
    2 quarters
    Cost
    Ad budget
    Owner
    Director of Sales

    Smallest test

    Run one LinkedIn campaign to 500 SaaS marketers.

    Why it works

    Package a SaaS offer (AI-search readiness, demo-request attribution, domain consolidation after acquisitions), run LinkedIn to SaaS marketing leaders in Texas, and write two more SaaS case studies from current clients.

    A focused vertical with an award-winning proof point beats generalist positioning in SaaS.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Long SaaS sales cycles

      Nurture with the quarterly study.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteMitratech case study, the only one of 41 case studies tagged "Software + SaaS": a "fast-growing B2B SaaS company in compliance, HR, and legal software"; results "300% increase in AI answers", "231% increase in demo requests", "2X increase in organic revenue", "85% increase in non-brand keyword rankings". It is also the only case study with no meta description (checked October 23, 2026).Source
    • Your websiteNews, February 5, 2026: Forthea was named PPC Agency of the Year for the fourth consecutive year at the 2025 US Agency Awards, "the first agency to achieve this feat in the awards' history", and won Silver for Best SEO Campaign for its work with Mitratech; it describes its aim as being the "McKinsey of Marketing".Source
    • Competitor researchRivals' own homepages: Directive, "Customer Generation methodology. 420+ brands served, $1B+ revenue" for B2B; Power Digital, "data-driven marketing strategies that make profit predictable"; Ignite Visibility, "custom SEO, PPC, paid social, and CRO. Get a free proposal today!"Source
    • Your websiteThe Software + SaaS industry page promises to "accelerate demand by attracting and converting qualified leads", but its featured result and only case-study link is New Horizons Learning Group, an IT training company ("753% increase in organic conversions"). It does not link the Mitratech case study.Source
  • 12

    Real visitors pass Core Web Vitals, but Google's phone test scores the homepage 43 with the headline appearing at 19.6 s, mostly from 1.8 MB of JavaScript (Tag Manager alone 1.1 MB). Prospects who run PageSpeed on a CRO agency's own site will see that score.

    Medium impactMedium effort First result in 1 month Web Developer

    First action

    Audit Tag Manager tags and remove unused ones.

    How to measure it

    Mobile lab score

    Now
    –
    Target
    80+
    By
    1 quarter

    Steps

    1. 1

      Tag audit

      Remove duplicates and unused tags.

      Analytics Lead 1 day

    2. 2

      Delay scripts

      Chat, heatmaps, ads after load.

      Web Developer 2 days

    3. 3

      Icons

      Self-host the icons used.

      Web Developer 1 day

    4. 4

      Headline

      Render the hero text without waiting for scripts.

      Web Developer 1 day

    5. 5

      Re-test

      PageSpeed phone and desktop.

      Web Developer weekly

    6. 6

      Use in sales

      Before-and-after as a mini case study.

      Director of Sales 1 week

    First result
    1 month
    Cost
    Developer time
    Owner
    Web Developer

    Smallest test

    Remove unused tags and re-test today.

    Why it works

    Remove unused tags from Tag Manager, delay chat, heatmap and ad scripts until after load, self-host icons instead of the icon CDN, and re-test until the phone score is above 80.

    An agency that sells speed and conversion should pass its own test; it removes an easy objection.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Tracking loss

      Check conversions after each change.

    Evidence

    • PageSpeed testGoogle PageSpeed for www.forthea.com (October 23, 2026). Real Chrome visitors across the site pass Core Web Vitals (75th percentile: main content in 1.8 s, taps answered in 72 ms, no layout shift). The mobile lab test scores 43/100 (desktop 73) with the main content, the "Helping Others Succeed" headline, appearing at 19.6 s; 1.8 MB of JavaScript from 16 third parties, Google Tag Manager alone 1.1 MB; about 4.7 s could be saved by removing unused JavaScript.Source
    • Your websiteHomepage: headline "Helping Others Succeed", "We just happen to be digital marketers"; main call to action "Get My Strategy" and a phone number; one client quote (Hanover Company); a "Just launched" web project. The consultation page says "we'll get back to you within one business day", then an "Obligation-Free Consultation", then "We'll send a proposal".Source
  • 13

    Clients such as Hanover say Forthea is "truly an extension of our team", and many work in industries where marketers know each other (multifamily, franchises, B2B industrial).

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter Account Director / Group Lead

    First action

    List clients with strong results this quarter.

    How to measure it

    Referrals

    Now
    –
    Target
    6 a quarter
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      List

      Happy clients.

      Account Director / Group Lead 1 week

    2. 2

      Offer

      Thank-you choice.

      President 1 week

    3. 3

      Script

      One-line ask.

      Marketing Project Coordinator 1 day

    4. 4

      Ask

      At reviews.

      Account Director / Group Lead ongoing

    5. 5

      Track

      In HubSpot.

      Marketing Project Coordinator ongoing

    6. 6

      Thank

      Within a week.

      Account Director / Group Lead ongoing

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Thank-you costs
    Owner
    Account Director / Group Lead

    Smallest test

    Ask three clients this month.

    Why it works

    Ask for one introduction at each strong quarterly review, offer a thank-you (a donation, a free audit or a fee credit), and track referrals in HubSpot.

    Referred prospects close faster and stay longer than cold leads.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Awkward asks

      Ask only after good results.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteHomepage: headline "Helping Others Succeed", "We just happen to be digital marketers"; main call to action "Get My Strategy" and a phone number; one client quote (Hanover Company); a "Just launched" web project. The consultation page says "we'll get back to you within one business day", then an "Obligation-Free Consultation", then "We'll send a proposal".Source
    • HiringMarketing Project Coordinator (Houston, posted September 23, 2026): "Review account performance and present suggestions and proposals for up-sells", "Support the Account Lead on renewals by tracking renewal dates, pulling performance results, and preparing talking points", "Help write proposals for new services, add-ons, and upgrades" and "Proactively monitor and report on client success to internal teams".Source
    • Your websiteMultifamily is the deepest vertical: a Budget Planning Attribution Model offered as a "30-minute demo", case studies for Embrey, Hanover, Druker and Aspire, a 2026 trends report, an AEO cheat sheet and an AIM multifamily conference page.Source
  • 14

    There are about 90 separate award pages, many from 2013 to 2022. Thin, similar pages dilute the site and bury the four-in-a-row PPC record.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 month Marketing Manager

    First action

    Export the award pages with traffic.

    How to measure it

    Thin award pages

    Now
    –
    Target
    Under 10
    By
    1 quarter

    Steps

    1. 1

      Export

      Pages and traffic.

      SEO Specialist 1 day

    2. 2

      Design

      Grouped awards page.

      Web Developer 1 week

    3. 3

      Redirect

      To the page or case study.

      SEO Specialist 1 day

    4. 4

      Keep

      Pages with real content.

      SEO Specialist 1 day

    5. 5

      Link

      From homepage and about.

      Web Developer 1 hour

    6. 6

      Check

      Search Console.

      SEO Specialist 1 month

    First result
    1 month
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Marketing Manager

    Smallest test

    Redirect the ten oldest award pages.

    Why it works

    Build one awards page grouped by year and type with the latest at the top, redirect the individual pages to it (or to the matching case study), and keep only award pages with real content.

    One strong page ranks and converts better than many thin ones and makes the record easy to scan.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Lost traffic

      Redirect each page to the closest match.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteSitemap (372 URLs): 160 blog posts, with the latest on September 28, 2026 ("The 220 Day Blind Spot in B2B Buying") after a June batch; about 90 award pages under /about/awards/, many from 2013 to 2022; the homepage says its "Ph.D. data scientists uncover deep insights".Source
    • Your websiteNews, February 5, 2026: Forthea was named PPC Agency of the Year for the fourth consecutive year at the 2025 US Agency Awards, "the first agency to achieve this feat in the awards' history", and won Silver for Best SEO Campaign for its work with Mitratech; it describes its aim as being the "McKinsey of Marketing".Source
  • 15

    Forthea already writes about Google updates and AI search changes, but in bursts (a June batch, then September). Clients and prospects need a steady, short update.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter Marketing Manager

    First action

    Plan the first three monthly topics.

    How to measure it

    Briefing subscribers

    Now
    –
    Target
    1,000
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Topics

      Three months ahead.

      SEO Specialist 1 week

    2. 2

      Template

      Email and slides.

      Marketing Manager 1 week

    3. 3

      Invite

      Clients and pipeline.

      Marketing Project Coordinator monthly

    4. 4

      Host

      Webinar.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance monthly

    5. 5

      Repurpose

      Blog and LinkedIn.

      SEO Specialist monthly

    6. 6

      Measure

      Attendees and meetings.

      Analytics Lead monthly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    Marketing Manager

    Smallest test

    Send the first briefing next month.

    Why it works

    Send a monthly email and 20-minute webinar: what changed in search and AI answers, what Forthea is testing, and one client result. Invite prospects from the pipeline.

    A regular briefing keeps Forthea top of mind and gives account teams a reason to talk to clients.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Low attendance

      Send the recording too.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteSitemap (372 URLs): 160 blog posts, with the latest on September 28, 2026 ("The 220 Day Blind Spot in B2B Buying") after a June batch; about 90 award pages under /about/awards/, many from 2013 to 2022; the homepage says its "Ph.D. data scientists uncover deep insights".Source
    • Your websiteAEO service page: "Request an AI Audit"; services listed are AI Visibility Audit, Search Everywhere Strategy (SEOx), AEO, Content Mapping & LLM Training, Competitive Analysis, and AEO Analysis + Reporting; a quote from a "B2B SaaS Client // CMO". There are separate AEO and GEO pages, and a downloads page with a Multifamily AEO Cheat Sheet and a 2026 Multifamily Marketing Trends Report.Source
  • 16

    The new coordinator is asked to track renewal dates and pull performance results. A fixed rhythm turns this from ad hoc work into a retention system.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 1 quarter VP

    First action

    Load every renewal date into HubSpot.

    How to measure it

    Client renewal rate

    Now
    –
    Target
    +5 points
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Dates

      All renewals in HubSpot.

      Marketing Project Coordinator 1 week

    2. 2

      Template

      Results pack.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance 1 week

    3. 3

      Alerts

      90 and 60 days.

      Marketing Operations 1 day

    4. 4

      Prepare

      Pack per client.

      Marketing Project Coordinator ongoing

    5. 5

      Present

      With the account lead.

      Account Director / Group Lead ongoing

    6. 6

      Review

      Win and loss reasons.

      VP, Operations quarterly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    VP, Operations

    Smallest test

    Prepare packs for next quarter's renewals.

    Why it works

    Keep all renewal dates in HubSpot, build a standard results pack (goals, results, wins, next-year plan) and present it 60 days before renewal with the account lead.

    Showing results before the renewal talk lowers churn and makes up-sells natural.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Weak results

      Raise them early with a fix plan.

    Evidence

    • HiringMarketing Project Coordinator (Houston, posted September 23, 2026): "Review account performance and present suggestions and proposals for up-sells", "Support the Account Lead on renewals by tracking renewal dates, pulling performance results, and preparing talking points", "Help write proposals for new services, add-ons, and upgrades" and "Proactively monitor and report on client success to internal teams".Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source

Big bets 3

Larger plays that can change the trajectory.

  • 17

    Forthea already tracks AI Overview appearances and LLM sessions for clients like Mitratech and Paul Davis. Clients will want to see their share of AI answers every month, against rivals.

    High impactHigh effort First result in 3 quarters Sr. Director

    First action

    Define the index for one client.

    How to measure it

    Index retainers

    Now
    –
    Target
    15
    By
    1 year

    Steps

    1. 1

      Method

      Questions, engines, scoring.

      SEO Specialist 1 month

    2. 2

      Tooling

      Tracking and dashboards.

      Analytics Lead 1 quarter

    3. 3

      Pilot

      Five clients.

      Account Director / Group Lead 1 quarter

    4. 4

      Price

      Retainer tiers.

      President 1 month

    5. 5

      Launch

      To all clients and prospects.

      Director of Sales 1 month

    6. 6

      Improve

      Quarterly method review.

      SEO Specialist quarterly

    First result
    3 quarters
    Cost
    Tool and analyst costs
    Owner
    Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance

    Smallest test

    Send one client a manual index this month.

    Why it works

    Productise it: a monthly index of share of AI answers for each client's category questions vs named competitors, with trends and actions, sold as a retainer on its own or with SEO.

    A recurring measure creates recurring revenue and anchors the AEO service.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • AI answers vary

      Sample often and show ranges.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteAEO service page: "Request an AI Audit"; services listed are AI Visibility Audit, Search Everywhere Strategy (SEOx), AEO, Content Mapping & LLM Training, Competitive Analysis, and AEO Analysis + Reporting; a quote from a "B2B SaaS Client // CMO". There are separate AEO and GEO pages, and a downloads page with a Multifamily AEO Cheat Sheet and a 2026 Multifamily Marketing Trends Report.Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source
    • Your websiteMitratech case study, the only one of 41 case studies tagged "Software + SaaS": a "fast-growing B2B SaaS company in compliance, HR, and legal software"; results "300% increase in AI answers", "231% increase in demo requests", "2X increase in organic revenue", "85% increase in non-brand keyword rankings". It is also the only case study with no meta description (checked October 23, 2026).Source
  • 18

    Forthea has Houston and Dallas pages and serves Dallas with an in-person team. Austin is a SaaS and multifamily market, the two verticals with Forthea's strongest proof.

    High impactHigh effort First result in 4 quarters President

    First action

    List 100 Austin SaaS and multifamily targets.

    How to measure it

    Austin opportunities

    Now
    –
    Target
    10
    By
    4 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Targets

      100 companies.

      Director, Business Development 1 month

    2. 2

      Page

      Austin page with proof.

      Web Developer 2 weeks

    3. 3

      Person

      Local business developer.

      President 1 quarter

    4. 4

      Events

      Local SaaS and apartment events.

      Director, Business Development monthly

    5. 5

      Outreach

      Target list.

      Director, Business Development ongoing

    6. 6

      Decide

      After two quarters.

      President 2 quarters

    First result
    4 quarters
    Cost
    Salary and travel
    Owner
    President

    Smallest test

    Run outreach to 50 Austin companies from Houston.

    Build the prospect list. The list compiled from public sources, verified, deduplicated and delivered to your CRM. Usually live within days.

    Book a working session

    Why it works

    Test Austin first: a local page with Texas SaaS and multifamily proof, a business developer based there, local events and a target list. Add San Antonio if Austin produces pipeline in two quarters.

    Local presence wins mid-market clients who prefer in-person agencies.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Slow start

      Start remote before hiring.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteAreas We Serve has pages for Houston and Dallas only ("Explore Our Reach" redirects to the index). The Dallas page's featured result is "Multifamily Leasing up During a Pandemic" for a complex that opened in 2020.Source
    • Your websiteMitratech case study, the only one of 41 case studies tagged "Software + SaaS": a "fast-growing B2B SaaS company in compliance, HR, and legal software"; results "300% increase in AI answers", "231% increase in demo requests", "2X increase in organic revenue", "85% increase in non-brand keyword rankings". It is also the only case study with no meta description (checked October 23, 2026).Source
    • Your websiteMultifamily is the deepest vertical: a Budget Planning Attribution Model offered as a "30-minute demo", case studies for Embrey, Hanover, Druker and Aspire, a 2026 trends report, an AEO cheat sheet and an AIM multifamily conference page.Source
  • 19

    Forthea has strong franchise and multifamily results and a multi-location attribution story. Franchise consultants and multifamily developer associations meet many brands at once.

    High impactMedium effort First result in 3 quarters Director of Sales

    First action

    List five franchise and multifamily partner candidates.

    How to measure it

    Partner opportunities

    Now
    –
    Target
    8
    By
    3 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      List

      Five candidates.

      Director of Sales 2 weeks

    2. 2

      Offer

      Workshop and referral fee.

      President 2 weeks

    3. 3

      Sign

      Three partners.

      Director of Sales 1 quarter

    4. 4

      Workshops

      Quarterly.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance quarterly

    5. 5

      Track

      Partner links.

      Marketing Operations 1 week

    6. 6

      Review

      Pipeline by partner.

      Director of Sales quarterly

    First result
    3 quarters
    Cost
    Referral fees
    Owner
    Director of Sales

    Smallest test

    Run one workshop for a franchise group.

    Why it works

    Agree referral partnerships with two franchise development firms and one multifamily association, offer member workshops on AI search and local PPC, and give each partner a tracked consultation link.

    Partners bring groups of qualified buyers who share the same problem.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Partners push rivals

      Offer exclusive member content.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteFranchise work: the Paul Davis multi-location franchise case study ("731% ROI from digital marketing", attribution inside the Paul Davis CRM), a Paul Davis Milwaukee AEO case, a /franchisepartner/ landing page and a 2026 post on franchise growth strategies.Source
    • Your websiteMultifamily is the deepest vertical: a Budget Planning Attribution Model offered as a "30-minute demo", case studies for Embrey, Hanover, Druker and Aspire, a 2026 trends report, an AEO cheat sheet and an AIM multifamily conference page.Source
    • HiringDirector of Sales (Houston; posting updated August 26, 2026 and listed on the careers page): "Create and implement both marketing and sales (M&S) plans", "Improve M&S collateral and processes (e.g. sales presentations, case studies, proposals, reports...)", "Lay the foundation for a future M&S team", and "You must be awesome at opening doors, and getting appointments from a cold start."Source

Wildcards 2

Unexpected experiments, each with a cheap way to test it.

  • 20

    Forthea's AEO work shows businesses can go from invisible to cited in AI answers. Local business owners rarely know who AI assistants recommend in their category.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter SEO Specialist

    First action

    Run the 20 searches across AI assistants.

    How to measure it

    Free checks requested

    Now
    –
    Target
    50 a quarter
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Searches

      20 categories.

      SEO Specialist 1 week

    2. 2

      Method note

      How answers were collected.

      SEO Specialist 2 days

    3. 3

      Publish

      Page and chart.

      Web Developer 1 week

    4. 4

      Press

      Local business media.

      Marketing Manager 2 weeks

    5. 5

      Free check

      Form for businesses.

      Web Developer 2 days

    6. 6

      Refresh

      Quarterly.

      SEO Specialist quarterly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Staff time only
    Owner
    SEO Specialist

    Smallest test

    Publish five categories first.

    Why it works

    Publish a quarterly list of which businesses AI answers name for 20 Houston service searches (e.g. "best roofer in Houston"), with a free check for any business that wants to know where it stands.

    Local press and business owners share lists, and every business not named is a warm lead for local AEO.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Businesses object to being left out

      Explain the method and offer the check.

    Evidence

    • Your websiteAEO service page: "Request an AI Audit"; services listed are AI Visibility Audit, Search Everywhere Strategy (SEOx), AEO, Content Mapping & LLM Training, Competitive Analysis, and AEO Analysis + Reporting; a quote from a "B2B SaaS Client // CMO". There are separate AEO and GEO pages, and a downloads page with a Multifamily AEO Cheat Sheet and a 2026 Multifamily Marketing Trends Report.Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source
  • 21

    Forthea has 41 written case studies; the Director of Sales is asked to improve sales presentations and case studies. Busy buyers skim text but watch two-minute videos shared by their agency contact.

    Medium impactLow effort First result in 1 quarter Director of Sales

    First action

    Pick five case studies to record.

    How to measure it

    Win rate for proposals with videos

    Now
    –
    Target
    +10%
    By
    2 quarters

    Steps

    1. 1

      Pick

      Five strongest.

      Director of Sales 1 day

    2. 2

      Script

      Two minutes each.

      Marketing Project Coordinator 1 week

    3. 3

      Record

      With the strategist.

      Sr. Director, Client Strategy + Performance 1 week

    4. 4

      Embed

      On case study pages.

      Web Developer 1 day

    5. 5

      Use

      In proposals and email.

      Director, Business Development ongoing

    6. 6

      Measure

      Views and win rate.

      Director of Sales quarterly

    First result
    1 quarter
    Cost
    Simple video kit
    Owner
    Director of Sales

    Smallest test

    Record the Mitratech walk-through first.

    Why it works

    Record two-minute walk-throughs of the five strongest case studies (problem, what changed, numbers), embed them on the pages and use them in proposals and follow-up emails.

    Video makes results memorable and shows the team behind them.

    Risks and how to handle them

    • Production time

      Keep it screen-recorded.

    Evidence

    • HiringDirector of Sales (Houston; posting updated August 26, 2026 and listed on the careers page): "Create and implement both marketing and sales (M&S) plans", "Improve M&S collateral and processes (e.g. sales presentations, case studies, proposals, reports...)", "Lay the foundation for a future M&S team", and "You must be awesome at opening doors, and getting appointments from a cold start."Source
    • Your websiteCase study library (41 pages): the newest are AI-search and PPC results, e.g. Paul Davis Milwaukee "from 1 to 61 AI Overview appearances, a 59% increase in call volume", GMN Bearing (AEO, "26x ROAS"), an industrial-sector roundup, Power Temp Systems (2.5x conversions) and an AI Max for Search test (186% more conversions). Older ones include "covid-19" and "multifamily-leasing-during-pandemic".Source
    • Your websiteMitratech case study, the only one of 41 case studies tagged "Software + SaaS": a "fast-growing B2B SaaS company in compliance, HR, and legal software"; results "300% increase in AI answers", "231% increase in demo requests", "2X increase in organic revenue", "85% increase in non-brand keyword rankings". It is also the only case study with no meta description (checked October 23, 2026).Source

03

How Programmable can help

Where an idea in this playbook is something Programmable builds or runs, it's listed here with what we'd do. Everything else is yours to run.

Have it built

ProgrammableAgency

1 of the 21 ideas are things Programmable builds and runs for its customers: pages, outreach, prospect lists, booking flows and monitors. Pick one, or send the whole list.

Prospect lists1The list compiled from public sources, verified, deduplicated and delivered to your CRM.

A 30-minute session with the engineer who would build it, not a sales call. You leave with a plan whether or not you hire us.

Book a working session

Usually live within days.

Tools for the rest

ProgrammableInfo

Turn the research into a list you can act on

These ideas start with finding the right companies. Info finds them and the right person at each, researches every one and drafts the outreach, then asks before it sends.

  • Build this list in Info for idea #8 (opens programmable.info in a new tab)

New accounts: 100,000 free credits with code BETA100K

Find the companies (opens programmable.info in a new tab)
ProgrammableDigital

Show it, don't just describe it

These ideas need something to show: a demo, a video, an animation, graphics or a deck. Digital turns screenshots or the site into all of them, in the company's own brand.

Make a demo (opens programmable.digital in a new tab)
More example playbooks and reviews

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See every playbook and website review

Independent research. Programmable wrote this playbook from public sources, as they stood on October 26, 2026, and cites them throughout. Forthea did not commission, review or endorse it, and Programmable is not affiliated with Forthea. Company and product names are trademarks of their owners, used only to identify them. The ideas are suggestions and opinion, not professional, legal or financial advice, and not statements about how Forthea runs its business.

Something wrong, or do you represent Forthea? Email [email protected] and we will correct it or take it down.

30/60/90 roadmap

What to focus on in each month, and the ideas that carry it.

  1. Days 1 to 306 ideas

    Industry proof grid led by Mitratech, AEO add-on reviews, self-booked calls, the Dallas page, the award line and clean job posts.

  2. Days 31 to 6012 ideas

    Free AI answer check, trigger outreach, franchise budget model, quarterly studies, SaaS push, homepage speed, referrals, awards page, monthly briefing and renewal packs; the local AI list and video walk-throughs.

  3. Days 61 to 903 ideas

    Commit to the big bets: the AI Visibility Index retainer, Austin and franchise and multifamily partners.

The research behind the plan

3 research areas, each summarised in a few lines. Open any of them for the full detail.

Customers

What customers say

Customers value an agency that acts as an extension of the team. The most cited problem: proving marketing ROI.

  • Results tied to revenue and leads
  • Search changes from AI answers
  • In their words: “measurable results”

Market

Competitive landscape

4 competitors compared: Directive, Power Digital, Ignite Visibility and Local Houston agencies.

  • Gap to exploit: Measured AI-search results by industry
  • Directive: Less local presence in Texas
  • Power Digital: Less vertical depth in multifamily

Hiring signals

Forthea is building a sales and account-growth engine.

  • Director of Sales: Case studies, proposals and cold-start meetings. Ideas 1, 3, 8, 11.
  • Marketing Project Coordinator: Up-sells, renewals and client success reporting. Ideas 2, 16.
  • HR Manager/Director: A growing delivery team. Idea 6.

From the team that wrote this playbook

All products
  • ProgrammableAgencyWorking AI systems in days, not quarters (opens programmable.agency in a new tab)
  • ProgrammableInfoAn agent that finds, researches and asks first (opens programmable.info in a new tab)
  • ProgrammableDigitalScreenshots in, an animated product demo out (opens programmable.digital in a new tab)
  • ProgrammableWatchKnow the day a supplier falls out of compliance (opens programmable.watch in a new tab)
  • ProgrammableTalkGet registrants for your events, and know who’s coming (opens programmable.talk in a new tab)
  • ProgrammablePageText what you need, your customer gets a page that works (opens programmable.page in a new tab)
  • ProgrammableCommunityForums with labelled AI members, never empty (opens programmable.community in a new tab)
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