24 August 2010 – Google is supposedly testing a `streaming’ search engine which gives the searcher results even before they ask. Captured on video, the results pages can be seen to change according to the characters the enquirer types into the search box.
Google literally updates the results whilst the searcher is typing. According to Adam Bunn, Head of SEO at UK-based independent specialist search and social marketing agency Greenlight, although it is a very impressive demonstration of processing power, that’s about where it ends.
"This is the second bizarre experiment we’ve seen Google try in the space of a few days, the first being the search engine results page (SERP) being dominated by one site. I’m dubious about the value it adds, and think if anything, people will be confused and turned off by it. Consequently, however Google is measuring success of this, the results probably won’t be positive enough to warrant rolling this out to all. In both cases I would be highly surprised if the experiment works."
Adams notes the SERPS being dominated by one domain would obviously be big news if it happens, making brands searches that are dominated by one site all but pointless to target with SEO. However, he also stresses that the likelihood of Google rolling out either of these tests is low, and points out that Google does lots of tests all the time in its quest to improve the search experience. "Given the number of tests Google conducts there are always going to be some that miss the mark."
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
Adam Bunn is Head of SEO at Greenlight. A search professional with over 6 years SEO experience behind him, he oversees natural search strategies for all Greenlight’s SEO clients such as Santander, Vodafone UK and Interflora. Adam has experience of building and leading strong SEO consultancy teams. Thanks to his industry expertise and broad knowledge as an SEO practitioner, he runs the in-house training program and is regularly called upon to train delegates at the IDM and industry conferences such as SES. Adam has also run bespoke external training programmes for the likes of First Conferences and Lastminute.com.
Adam regularly provides innovative thought leadership pieces, white papers and opinion pieces for trade publications including Econsultancy, UTalkMarketing and Tech Weekly.
Web: http://www.greenlightsearch.com
About Greenlight:
Greenlight is an independent specialist search and social marketing agency, the largest of its kind in Europe and the fastest growing. With over 100 blue-chip clients including Santander, Vodafone UK, New Look, Interflora, Co-operative Financial Services and ghd, and a multitude of awards to its name, Greenlight is a leader in the search marketing space, and is recognised worldwide for its commitment to delivering record ROI for its clients and investing in the future of search.
In addition, Greenlight is considered the premier thought leader in the sector, publishing widely read industry reports, original research, speaking at most trade events, and delivering a highly respected search training programme in conjunction with the IDM. Greenlight was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in London, with offices in New York. www.greenlightsearch.com