Sunday, November 6th, 2005, 11:52 pm
Google as the Shopper’s Reference
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Although Google Suggest is a separate (yet tight) extension of the
search bar, its name reflects on reason for fear among giants like Wal-Mart
HE New York Times discusses the effect of ‘Googling’ things on industry. The article broadens its scope to discuss the small, the large and the intimidatingly large-scale impact.
Since many people begin their Web surfing with Google’s search page, information (or global knowledge) is somewhat controlled and centralised in Google’s datacentres. Search engines are able to provide advice to their consumers, much like trusted peers. With search engine optimisation there can be bias, which is dangerous. Moreover, with bad publicity in blogs and forums, many companies become overly concerned.
Wal-Mart, the nation’s largest retailer, often intimidates its competitors and suppliers. Makers of goods from diapers to DVD’s must cater to its whims. But there is one company that even Wal-Mart eyes warily these days: Google, a seven-year-old business in a seemingly distant industry.
…
Wal-Mart is scarcely alone in its concern. As Google increasingly becomes the starting point for finding information and buying products and services, companies that even a year ago did not see themselves as competing with Google are beginning to view the company with some angst – mixed with admiration.
…
Google, the reigning giant of Web search, could extend its economic reach in the next few years as more people get high-speed Internet service and cellphones become full-fledged search tools, according to analysts. And ever-smarter software, they say, will cull and organize larger and larger digital storehouses of news, images, real estate listings and traffic reports, delivering results that are more like the advice of a trusted human expert.
Found yesterday in Dave Winer’s blog
