Google Launches New Local Search Algorithm: Google Pigeon Update

[StevePoster]

Guys Google launches new local search algorithm update and it called Google Pigeon. It is not designed for web spam but a basic change to the local search ranking algorithm. Google does not stated the percentage of queries that impacted on this update and I'm sure its not so important at all. This changes was rolled out to Google web and Google map search results.

 

[DexSmart]

Well, this new update already had some victims among those who were having multiple local listings for locksmiths, plumbing services. Google needs to be more determined with this. Pigeon is one way and it's a good start. Map maker it's one good tool also but despite that "business" people could still dupe the listing.

 

[OSWS]

You're a little behind the times StevePoster http://www.april-fools.us/google-pigeonrank.htm

 

[Shaliniverma]

I also have read the article on 'search engine land' regarding Pigeon update. Pigeon update focuses on local directory sites getting better visibility in Google’s search results.

 

[jamesdsouza]

Due to this algorithm, one thing is clear i.e. local directory sites are more important than ever and Yelp is the clear winner as it tops SERPs.

 

[MASSEY]

I've noticed a return of the directories over the months. They must have realised that they make more in adwords and adsense pushing directories higher.

 

[UKSBD]

I've noticed a return of the directories over the months. They must have realised that they make more in adwords and adsense pushing directories higher.

You saying directories predominantly do it for the AdSense earning?

 

[MASSEY]

You saying directories predominantly do it for the AdSense earning?

Oh yes! And you know it more than most lol.

 

[StevePoster]

You're a little behind the times StevePoster http://www.april-fools.us/google-pigeonrank.htm

You provided a link that is not related to the thread and I'm wondering why you post that kind of link that has nothing to do with the topic. The thread that I have posted is according to different kind of sources that I have read recently about the Google Pigeon update.

 

[OSWS]

You provided a link that is not related to the thread and I'm wondering why you post that kind of link that has nothing to do with the topic. The thread that I have posted is according to different kind of sources that I have read recently about the Google Pigeon update.

Steve, you did not mention any sources in your original posting and links to the original hoax were amongst the top results that appeared when I search for Google Pigeon updates.
If you had referenced your original comments it would have been helpful.

Now that results are coming through on the latest update to the Google local search update it is clear that the term "pigeon update" was coined by Search Engine Land. Google have not made an official comment as far as I can see, which is usual. Rather, everybody else is jumping on the bandwagon and getting excited.

From a personal perspective I haven't seen much difference to local results. For example, the local map listings for eCommerce Web Designers in my geographic area remains directory free. If looking at the organic results (not the map results) I would arguably say that some of the local directiories such as Yelp and Norwich.co.uk have disappeared from the results. However, I don't doubt that Moz, Search Engine Land, Search Engine Round Table et al are right in their concolusions: Some businesses will benefit, others will see a drop in the rankings. Personally, I feel that pushing the top directory sites such as Yell and Yelp up the Local search rankings is good as it gives some credance back to the more traditional sources for locating local businesses: providing of course Yelp, Yell et al sort their own directories out!

What is interesting is the relatively new concept showing results from "Top Reviewers" or "Expert Reviews" in the Map results. If I look at results from "Top Reviewers" for Commerce Web Designers in Norwich as an example Google's results list Fat Face Clothing and GDP Design and Shop Fitting amongst the top results. I know from local knowledge, and it should be fairly clear, that these companies have nothing to do with eCommerce Web Design. Clearly, there is a long way to go before Google correctly aligns its algorithm to match map search results with users queries and related 'expert' reviews !

 

[UKSBD]

From a personal perspective I haven't seen much difference to local results.

It's only happening in English speaking searches in USA at the moment

 

[StevePoster]

Steve, you did not mention any sources in your original posting and links to the original hoax were amongst the top results that appeared when I search for Google Pigeon updates.
If you had referenced your original comments it would have been helpful.

http://www.seroundtable.com/ and http://searchengineland.com/ these are the two websites and their content about the Google Pigeon update is my reference. I think most of the people here knows these reputable sites.