Great question.

Yes, I believe that entirely. I think you just need to stick to the basics...good content, good site-design...and you mentioned ROI, so if you're selling a product...find a way to make it unique. Or if you're drop-shipping or reselling something...find an edge or a way that makes how you present the product differently.

Keep at it. If you need to, PPC converts very well and is a much faster way to profitability and brand exposure.

Cheers!