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Google Places for Business and Google Maps are two very powerful offering from the most popular Internet search engine, Google.
What is Google Maps?
Google Maps is an interactive map web application, accessible via a quick Google search for “Google Maps”. It allows driving directions, the capability of zooming in and out of geographical locations, a plethora of map views, business locations and business contact information including company names, addresses and phone numbers, and much, much more.
So how does Google Places fit into all of this?
Think of Google Places as being a part of or even an extension of Google Maps. That is, without Google Maps, Google Places wouldn’t really work or each Google Place for Business listing wouldn’t have its place in the Google ecosystem. So Google Places needs Google Maps but Google Maps is greatly enhanced by Google Places. For a user’s perspective Google Places allows drill-down into “points of interest”. It shows parts of the map in more detail or at a more granular level. By incorporating this level of granularity, Google have created a much more interactive and connected way.
How does Google + Local fit into all of this? Doesn’t this replace Google Places?
Every Google + Local listing is backed by a Google Places for Business listing. This is where it can get confusing because Google Places contains the actual business information that Google holds about you. You are able to control this information and make sure that it is correct. Google + Local relates to the social aspect of interacting with your customers and online social circles. In terms of managing both Google Places and Google + Local both can be and should be merged. All new accounts are but some older accounts before the changeover may need to be merged. There is a process for this that Internet Marketing Platinum can help you with or guide you through. For further reading, popular online SEO resource Search Engine Watch provides also provides information about this.
Does your business appear on Google Maps and Google Places for Business and Google + Local?
If it doesn’t then sign up today. You will probably need to send off for your postcard which contains your PIN. This can be done via the Google Places for Business link or by Googling “google places for business”. In highly competitive markets you may need some help from Internet Marketing Platinum. There’s citations, reviews, video, images, filling out your profile, having generic enough categories and much, much more to think about so that’s why we are here to help.
Take advantage of everything Google Places for Business and Google Maps has to offer by enlisting the help of experienced professionals like us. We can be reached by phone, at +44(0)114 358 2490, or via our contact page here.
