Thoughts on a Separate Forum for Local Optimization

[Monty2]

MODERATOR NOTE: This thread was split from the now renamed Thoughts & Tips On Local SEO? (http://forums.searchenginewatch.com/showthread.php?t=3474) thread. Discussion over there covers local search tips. Discussion here is over whether the SEW Forums should open a dedicated forum just for local search issues. FYI, while I moved the poll, I couldn't move the names of those who already voted. For the record, at the time it moved, the score was:

Yes: 7, Chicago, fathom, kidmercury, Marcia, mcanerin, Monty2, rustybrick
No; 1, Adam C


Is there a special forum for LOCAL optimization?

[dannysullivan]

We don't have a local search area specifically here, but it's an interesting idea -- the mods are discussing now if we should add this.

[Marcia]

Here's my two cents, as the "Lazy Womans View on Local Search" ;)

Basically, I am posting because of being a big believer in the "local neighborhood" in all respects, and in particular today because I have just gotten delivery of a grocery order I placed with a super-market chain that has local delivery available in my area. Wow! How nice - I was out of a few items I use on a daily basis, and didn't have to hassle with going out to the store in the rain. A simple order online and I had my stuff the next day, right within the timeframe they promise on their site. Very cool, couldn't be better or lazier. ;)

I've long found local searches for the regular SERPs to be very straightforward and easy to get rankings for, but don't really know squat about "Local Search" as such, as it's being implemented by the several more popular search engines - and quite frankly have found the "Local" results rather disappointing since many companies or people who operate on a local level don't include addy or location info that's required, and I've seen far too many in regular SERPs who appear but are NOT in the local area - they are, quite frankly, just fudging it for local listings in the SERPs.

I wonder, since I'm a lover of the local neighborhood concept and therefore biased, whether it's online communities or the local physical area, whether others feel the same way. Is local search all hype, or is it a valid and potentially lucrative area of promotion that warrants special attention by means of a dedicated forum?

Is it just us lazy folks who enjoy getting their soup, cleanser, bananas and onions delivered, or is Local a viable market to target from your perspective as an internet marketer?

[Nacho]

Done. Your wish is granted. Meet the new Local Search Forum (http://forums.searchenginewatch.com/forumdisplay.php?f=59).

:)