Google (News - Alert), as the creator of Ad Words, has certainly demonstrated its expertise in targeting specific audiences. With the release of My Business earlier this month Google directed some manpower toward a suite of online services aimed at small businesses, drawing together Search, Maps and Google+ into a centralized location to simplify the process for businesses interested in creating a strong online presence.
The My Business campaign urges potential users to “Get Your Business On Google,” a phrase that immediately stirs significance in our culture. If people are “Googling” something it is implied that thing is important, and so logically it is in the best interest of businesses to be “on Google.”
What the My Business page does not currently include or even address is the importance of a good, old-fashioned website, but Google has far from neglected that aspect. Still in the development and limited trial stage is Google Domains, a service that allows users to purchase and register domain names in addition to gaining access information on third-party web hosting and tools for simple website creation (think Wix, Weebly, etc.).
When development is complete the domain service will undoubtedly emphasize full integration between the user’s newly created site and Google My Business, providing business owners with a cohesive, yet fully Google-sponsored website.
This is where it seems a bit domineering. Although it is a very attractive solution for small businesses to carve out an Internet presence (arguably the most complete package available on the market when taking into consideration the wealth of additional services Google has to offer in addition to its clout in the industry and the public) it is yet another aspect of the Web for Google to dominate.
If small businesses all over the world are going online in a way that is hopelessly indebted to Google, there will be significantly less competition and much more influence wielded by a single giant corporation.