Steps in using the local search feature

Using the local search feature within Google is an effective way to find information. The first step is to go to http://local.google.com. On the left side, you can set your default location so you don’t have to enter it each time. For this research, I entered Saraland, Alabama as the location. Then I went to the search line and put in “printing services” as my mock business is looking to print coupons and business cards and would like to support other businesses in our community. The search produced multiple results, displaying their locations on a map so I could quickly see which printers are close to me. On the left side, the name, address, phone number, and category of each search result were displayed. By clicking on the name of the company, it brought up more information about the company and pointed to their location on the map. It includes an option to get directions, search nearby, save, or post/read reviews. With most companies, a picture was also displayed and a direct link to their website. This local search function allows businesses, and individuals, to quickly locate the types of products or services they are in need of, and easily see their location on the map.