Google Local

In 2004 Google moved into the local directory market with Google Local, an online replacement for the book format directory listings like the Yellow Pages.  Over time Google merged the service into Google Maps, today offering local business and directory information on their interactive maps. 

History

By 2004 many search engines had already implemented local versions.  Various vendors, including companies like Harmon with their GPS units, had introduced hand held devices or cell phone applications with maps and local information.

Web 2.0 was becoming popular online.  Web 1.0 was service providers, like Google, delivering content.  Web 2.0 is people creating content for each other - and companies like Google created tools for users, so they could easily create and share content.

Google planned local versions of its popular search engine, with businesses maintaining their own listings and people taking responsibility as local editors.  That didn’t work well, but Google did gain success as further research and development merged mapping with directory listings and directions in what is now Google Maps.

Google Maps

Google maps (local.google.com) delivers localized results in a map format, along with directions.  It works on hand held devices like iPhones, taking the place of a dedicated GPS.  Some people like Google’s format - they have more control of locations and routes than they have when they use a GPS.

As an example, a search for Auto Repair at Google delivers (first three links):

  1. (http://autorepair.about.com/) A general auto repair information page at about.com.
  2. 10w40.com - An online auto repair community site.
  3. Repairpal.com - A site that tells users what auto repairs should cost.

By contrast the same search at local.google.com, combined with the name of a city/state or zip code, delivers a map that pinpoints local auto repair shops with pins.  If the user enters a starting address, the site delivers detailed driving directions to and from the destination auto repair center.

The Future

Google constantly researches new ideas and integrates old ideas into other areas.  They’ve already integrated a lot of local.google.com functionality into local searches and hand held devices like iPhones.  Google’s plans include making finding information, like local business and directions, even easier.

Categories: Glossary
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