New site hierarchies display in search results
Interesting changes to the way Google displays search results. In addition to the website URL it will also show a breadcrumn style trail from the homepage whenever it can.
Posted: 17 Nov 2009 08:02 AM PST
Google usually shows a green web address, or URL, at the bottom of each search result to let you know where you’re headed. Today we’re rolling out an improvement that replaces the URL in some search results with a hierarchy showing the precise location of the page on the website. The new display provides valuable context and new navigation options. The changes are rolling out now and should be available globally in the next few days.
Some web addresses help you understand the structure of the site and how the specific page fits into the site hierarchy. For example, consider a search for the biography of Vint Cerf (Google’s Internet Evangelist). The URL for one result, “www.google.com/corporate/execs.html,” shows that the page is located in a page about “execs,” under “corporate,” which is on the “google.com” site. This can provide valuable context when deciding whether to click on the result.
Often, however, URLs are too long, too short, or too obscure to add useful information. For example, consider this result from ProductWiki for the query.
Read more: GoogleBlog.Blogspot.com
Nov 19th, 2009 at 11:46 am
I dont think its good for shopping sites.. because my targeted page comes in SERP with other non targeted pages also. it might affect my sale..
any one come across any benefit if it over old style result.
Nov 19th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
An interesting point. If people see conversions reduce dramatically then they will complain and request the service removed. Maybe it will be configurable in Webmaster tools in a similar way the site links are.