The big search news of the day today is that Google Maps are being slowly integrated into search results pages. What's happening in essence is that when Google recognizes that the search being conducted is local they will provide a "Onebox" which includes a map and three business listings. Web users will also be able to obtan driving directions and get more information on the sites appearing in the OneBox. The OneBox however is nothing new. Previous local Onebox results were limited to text only listings (minus the map) however and looked in many respects like an Adwords listing. This version features much more "depth" for end users and includes links to reviews, details on those listings appearing and Web pages that link in.

If you've got a local business, now is the time to take advantage of these local SEM features. Both Yahoo and Google offer complimentary ways of helping small local businesses generate some exposure online. All it takes is an Internet connection and a browser. Of course, a free subscription to Website Magazine wouldn't hurt either.

Here's a quick look at the new "Onebox":