Froogle - Google's Shopping Search Engine
- Dec. 17, 2002
For years now Google has been on the cutting engine of Search Engine technology with algorithms that rank websites in Google’s database based on quality content and link reputation. They are now applying this technology to the simple task of searching for a product online. According to their site, they are providing the task of "locating stores that sell the item you want to find and pointing you directly to the place where you can make a purchase".
Search for the phrase "Simpsons Clue" at Froogle and you get a picture of the Board Game, pricing, store listing and a description of the product. The Hyperlink takes you directly to page on the Stores Website (in this case Wal Mart) with that product offered. The Froogle Search also gives you an instant price comparison. For popular Keyword searches, you may see listings on the right-hand side and they are clearly labeled as "Sponsored Links". To be listed there you have to setup a Google AdWords Select account and pay the Daily Budget required on a per keyword basis.
So how do you get your pages listed in Froogle? The same way you get them listed in Google. If you have products on your website, then you can Optimize your website to meet Google's guidelines. If you find your site is still not being shown, then you can submit a data feed at no charge. Froogle states that feeds can be updated as you add new products, change prices, offer special promotions, or discontinue products. You submit a data feed by filling out a form. You are required to give them your name, title, phone number, email address, the name of your store, the URL of your store's website, and a brief description of the types of products you sell. You will have to create, in their feed format, a tab-delimited text file and upload to them.
This new advancement in Search Technology is sure to catch on with some, and change the nature of the Search Engine Industry once again.
Jason Lane
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Online Shopping with Google's Froogle
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