Review on Microsoft Search Engine Bing

Review on Microsoft Search Engine Bing
by Andrew Grinaker, VP of Business Development/Strategy

Microsoft's new search engine "Bing" was officially released to the public today (June 1st) and according to Tech Flash it is getting some good reviews. Well, I had to put it to the test and provide (5) observations that I have made about Microsoft's new search engine.

1) Simple, straight forward design "“ Microsoft finally figured out to cut out the fluff and go straight for what website visitors are looking for "“ targeted information! The "Popular now" is also a nice feature that I am sure will grow over time once Bing starts getting more search results.

2) Left Hand Navigation "“ Probably the most original and forward thinking initiative for Microsoft when building out Bing. When doing a search for "laptops," I was presented with a Google like interface for the basic search results, but the left hand navigation provided easy entry points like Shopping, Brands, Buying Guide, Repair, Accessories, etc. When clicking on the "Shopping" tab I was presented with only search options that would take me to Shopping sites. Great new feature.

3) Local Search "“ I have always been a critic of Local Search and its ability to pinpoint a targeted search for me. I started off by searching for "sushi, Kirkland, wa" knowing what search result I was hoping to find. At first, it takes you to an "All Results" page but gives you the option to choose the "Local" tab. After choosing the tab, it starts with giving me SPONSORED LISTINGS from YellowPage, which as usual aren't as targeted, giving me 2 out of 3 locations located in Duval, which is about 10 miles away from Kirkland. However, additional features help me locate the closest Sushi restaurant after a few more clicks. Overall, easy to use and provides additional information I would normally have to dig for.

4) Maps Feature "“ In the past, I have not been a fan of the Microsoft mapping technology, but they have done a good job with relevant results in the mapping feature. The Add to Collections feature is excellent to keeping your past restaurants, parks and other locations saved and create easy ways for users to drop pins for businesses, draw colored areas on the map that are relevant and create directions.

5) Rollover Feature "“ Last but certainly not least, the preview rollover feature on the search results. When receiving your search results for a particular keyword query, you can rollover the SERP and receive a preview of the page without clicking on it. It only provides indexable content but it also provides content and will help limit people clicking on parked sites and keep search time a minimum.

Overall Score: 95/100 "“ Shocked, I know! Microsoft has done a fantastic job in providing a search engine that limits the amount of time you spend, provides valuable content relevant links and delivers targeted information.

Best Features: Shopping Function, Left Hand Navigation, Preview Rollover
Worst Features: Placement of Sponsored Listing (but hey, everyone has to get paid)

I only have one question; will we see an iPhone application?