Roundarch, a user-centric Web design and technology services provider, announces that it has hired Navneet Virk, as search engine strategist, to expand the company's search engine marketing (SEM) expertise. Virk is an expert in directing and implementing Web search initiatives, including keyword research, content development, Web development, link strategies and pay-per-click (PPC) campaign strategies. Virk will focus on integrating Rich Internet Applications (RIA) with SEM.

"RIA offers users a more engaging online experience, but it is difficult for traditional search engines to index them," said Aman Datta, vice president at Roundarch. "Navneet's strategic hire will help us solve the RIA/SEM issue and provide our clients with the power to influence users' online experience at every touch point -- from the crucial search phase to the final decision-making process, within a rich and immersive site."

Prior to joining Roundarch, Virk worked with Agency.com, where he consulted on search engine optimization for a multitude of clients, including Maidenform, CNN, Long and Foster, Choice Hotels, AllSteel and Audible.com. He received his master's in science from the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

"It is exciting to be on the cutting edge of Web 2.0 and SEM," said Virk. "I was drawn to Roundarch because of its dynamic team and its vision for what is possible in the next evolution of the Web."

Virk recently made a presentation on maintaining and increasing search-related traffic during a site redesign or a domain change at the Search Engine Strategies Conference & Expo. The conference is the premier event for search engine marketing and optimization and was held Aug. 10 in San Jose, Calif. To receive a copy of Virk's presentation, please email info@roundarch.com.

RIA creates a fundamentally different Web experience. Eschewing the point-and-click, page refreshing of conventional internet interface, RIA sites allow users to interact with the whole picture and intuitively move through sites in a cinematic experience.

Roundarch (www.roundarch.com) provides user-centric Web design and technology services to Fortune 500 companies and government organizations. Roundarch specializes in creating synergy between user experience and technology, helping clients utilize the Web to improve customer relationships and increase employee productivity. Customers include Baxter, Bear Stearns, JPMorgan Chase, The Hershey Company and the United States Air Force. Founded in 2000, Roundarch has offices in New York City and Chicago.