Google has officially moved their local search into beta and out of Google labs. Google’s approach to local search offers exciting new features such as using yellow page and business directory information combined with information about local businesses found on Google’s main Web page index.

Google experts said they perceive this upgrade as being significant and a big improvement compared to what they had on labs prior.

Some of the notable differences between Google and other local search offerings include incorporating extra information beyond basic business listings into its search results such as information on the Web sites of the businesses themselves.

The results of local searches are now displayed in three columns, which include the business name, address and related Web pages. In addition to this information, clicking on the business name links will pull up a reference page with related business information such as details about the business and a map with a button to get driving directions.

Other related pages include information such as:

• Reviews
• Commentaries
• Non-commercial attractions
• Community landmarks

Also, Google will offer personalized features such as allowing users to specify a home location, which will make it easier to access information like one-click driving directions to individual businesses.

Search Engine Optimization March 17, 2004