Nearly one year ago Website Magazine covered what we then called a "Fascinating
New Local SEM Feature at Google". Google Maps (and a great deal of
specifically local information) was starting to be integrated in the search
results pages on popular queries. It looks as though Google has extended that
effort recently and increased the number of results from 3 to 10 for some
queries. This signifies (or should) a major change in how PPC advertising will
be handled by professional SEM's and the importance of getting involved in
fostering a socially active local community.
January 31st, 2007
When end-users search for something like "mexican
restaurant in chicago" today, Google displays a OneBox that includes up to
ten results at the top of the page or in another prominent position (apparently
they are
testing the right sidebar as well).
January 28th, 2008
Approximately eight months ago I mentioned the Google Local OneBox to a
conference speaker addressing some specific SEM strategies. He had never heard
of it, and he was not alone. As Google SERPs (Search Engine Results Pages)
become more universal and attract content from a variety of sources, it's
crucial to adapt as quickly as possible. I did a quick video capture of how the
enhancement actually looks.