Space-Time Events
Scientists will tell you that everything can be defined as a "space-time event." It's pretty remarkable really. Everything can be unequivocally separated from its categorical look-alikes according to the real estate it occupies at a particular point in time – that's it, just two variables! So, if you can just zoom in on the right place at the right time, you can have exactly what you are looking for.
This concept has not been lost on Google. Sometime late last year they introduced both real-time search and Local Place Pages for businesses. If you are searching for a business, such as a restaurant, you can now expect to receive data relevant to both location and time. Location should be obvious. Usually, that means close to wherever you are. Time relates to things like specials or deals that may be here today and gone tomorrow. This you can schedule for.
An Example
Let's say you are trying to locate a place to celebrate with a group of friends. You envision a restaurant where you can dress up a little and also get loose and have some fun. Since your group of friends can be, shall we say,… particular, you decide the perfect restaurant is one that merges Asian and American cuisine, such as sushi and steaks. If they happen to have a martini special going this evening, even better yet.
Specials happen in the domain of time. Cuisine tends to be predetermined according to the style or menu of the restaurant. Depending upon how far you are willing to drive, you can very likely fulfill the criteria of your search. And if you can't, you simply make a few simple adjustments until you find what works.
Google Place Pages
This apparently unlikely scenario is unfolding everyday for many small businesses. If you wish to be are one of them, you need to go to Google Local Business and set up your Place Page. If you happen to own business that sports multiple locations, this information can be uploaded and updated via an excel spreadsheet. Do you think Google is serious about local search? You bet they are.
A Category of One
My friend Joe Calloway recently updated a new edition of his book entitled A Category of One. I'm sure you can infer the concept – own a category and you have eliminated the competition. It seems Google is willing to allow you to prove you are a category of one. They will ask you to place your business in predetermined categories so that they know how to place you in their searches, while also creating one of your own.
If you understand Search Engine Optimization (SEO), you know it is best to be included in the most relevant category that fits your business. In other words, it's always good to be where most people are looking, even if that space may be crowded. However, Google also gives allows you to create your own category in your Pages profile. What have you got to lose? As an example, I noticed there is only one category that starts with "green," which implies there is an opportunity there.
As for me, while I'm clear about my categories, it's the location I'm having trouble with. I work out of airports, client's offices, and my home. So, I'm still considering my options. Don't worry, creativity will kick-in and reign at just the right time.
Until I decide, you can find me right here.
Photo Credit: Wootam!
If you’re having problem with location then suggest that google makes a service that updates the Place Page location dynamicly from your cell phone location (LBS), if they not already have something like this.
Svensson – Now that is a great idea! There is still some resistance to location for security reasons. It will be interesting to watch this in the months ahead.
Jeff