We present a new direct fitting algorithm for retrieval of total column amounts from remote sensing UV/visible spectrometers. The GODFIT algorithm for GOME total ozone makes a single fit for the vertical column; there is no DOAS slant-column fitting and AMF conversion. GODFIT relies on a 1-1 column-profile map for ozone; all forward model simulations are done from scratch using the LIDORT linearized radiative transfer model. The algorithm includes a new molecular Ring correction implementation. A 2300-orbit validation showed closer agreement with ground-based results (excepting some polar regions), and much reduced scatter and seasonal variation. These findings are in line with results from the new generation of DOAS algorithms.