The Google Jazz upgrade is now rolling out and is available in most locations (although not all as I have it at home but not work). SInce its early testing, the interface has evolved through a number of changes as it relates to local, some of which pushed organic results further down the page than others. In the end though the final changes will not result in any significant difference when local results are shown.
Here is a screen capture at 1024 x 768 with before and after looks at the impact that the new interface PLUS the new local refinements options have on the page (click the image to see full size):
As you can see, by reducing the amount of space at the top of the page Google preserved the size of the Local 7-Pack and kept the amount of organic results the same as before.
When using the interface during the test, I came to like its feel and prefer it to the “yesterdays” display. What is your opinion of the interface? Will it have any new impact on Local and organic results?
I have also added screen shots of the old and new Local Universal result displays from my 1920×1200 monitor. Interestingly at this resolution the new and old designs both show 6 organic results.
Thanks Mike…and as ususal, google.com appears to be the only changed UI…up here in google.ca land…we’re the “same ol same ol!”
Blogged about same earlier today too –
http://www.canuckseo.com/index.php/2010/05/06/google-aint-new-in-canada/
Jim
Comment by Jim Rudnick (71 comments) — May 6, 2010 @ 11:23 am
I hate the left panel. For people logged into personalized search, it’s completely redundant.
I prefer my search results to be flush with the left of my browser. The gigantic left panel creates white space that distracts me from being able to quickly scan through my results. There’s nothing to anchor my eye to.
Comment by Rian (2 comments) — May 6, 2010 @ 5:59 pm
Looks a little more like Bing and/or a little more like Yahoo IMHO
Comment by Earlpearl (434 comments) — May 6, 2010 @ 6:16 pm
@Jim
It is rolling out across servers, so I assume that you will see it soon….
@Rian
For my tastes I would rather it utilize the whole width of my 1900 pixel screen but I have become accustomed to and somewhat fond of the new design.
I can understand though how it could be disruptive. Is it enough of a disruption to switch?
@Earlpearl
it does look more bing like although the new refinement options on local which rolled out simultaneously are interesting and will keep folks engaged with the 7 pack and Local.
Comment by Mike Blumenthal (793 comments) — May 6, 2010 @ 9:13 pm
t is rolling out across servers, so I assume that you will see it soon….
@Rian
For my tastes I would rather it utilize the whole width of my 1900 pixel screen but I have become accustomed to and somewhat fond of the new design.
I can understand though how it could be disruptive. Is it enough of a disruption to switch?
@Earlpearl
it does look more bing like although the new refinement options on local which rolled out simultaneously are interesting and will keep folks engaged with the 7 pack and Local.
Comment by john kate (1 comments) — May 20, 2010 @ 6:40 am