Deducing inbox placement involves a multi-faceted approach. While per-ISP open rates can provide directional insights, they aren't direct measures and can be misleading due to bot traffic, image blocking, and privacy changes. Seed list testing offers a more direct measurement. Managing bot traffic requires countermeasures, including detection and filtering, though effectiveness varies. Sender reputation, authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), engagement metrics, and consistent monitoring (e.g., Google Postmaster Tools, Microsoft SNDS) are crucial. Experts recommend seed lists, feedback loops, engaging deliverability consultants, cleaning email lists, and a proactive approach to bot mitigation.