Given how much I have complained about Google Map’s slightly sadistic & wildly misleading suspension message: System Error – We’re sorry, but we are unable to serve your request at this time. Please try back in a few minutes, I don’t know how I missed the recent transition to the new, improved & now easily understood suspension message:
Account Suspended!
Your Local Business Center account has been suspended. Please see the Business Listing Quality Guidelines for more information.
People will still come and complain in the forums, and one never knows whether their protestations are innocent or duplicitous but at least now they have an inkling as to why they are there. I am glad that Google has put in place a more transparent and communicative message.
I am curious though, does the message really include an exclamation point?
Update: Joel Headley of Google noted in his Google reader comments that: “Exclamation point is likely used because it’s shocking these folks thought it would be a good idea to spam”.
Thanks for the answer, inquiring minds wanted to know.
Well you could try a bit of “black hat” techniques and find out if there is an exclamation point for yourself. I can even be the whistle blower for you if you feel so inclined.
Comment by Mike Ramsey (93 comments) — September 30, 2009 @ 6:52 pm
It is always nice to see a drop of Google transparency
Comment by Vedran (12 comments) — September 30, 2009 @ 9:38 pm
@Vedran- that it is. Here’s to more Google transparency. Now we need to work on “Flagged-Waiting for Content Check”… the check that never happens.
@Mike Thanks for the offer.
Comment by Mike (2500 comments) — September 30, 2009 @ 10:13 pm
I think you were the driver for this change, Mike.
Comment by Tom Crandall (10 comments) — October 1, 2009 @ 4:08 pm
@Tom
Two preferences of mine: I always vote for clear English and if you are going to tell someone some bad news, tell them straight up.
Comment by Mike (2500 comments) — October 1, 2009 @ 6:24 pm