Google Launches a Weblog

After noting a test URL, and then noting when it went poof, I should probably note that I was out of town when the Google Weblog, now at http://www.google.com/googleblog/ , officially launched (in beta).

The Weblog describes itself this way: "Get the latest word direct from the Googleplex about new technology, hot issues, and the wide world of search." Which is neat, and of course it's always good to hear what the folks at Google are up to. They've put together one heck of a search engine, and the improvements keep rolling in.

But at the same time I find myself a bit bewildered. Google has filed for an IPO. I'm not a financial expert, but isn't this the time where Google may have to be a bit careful with what they're saying and when? Is that the right time to open a new direct channel of communication? Furthermore, I'm having a little trouble with the tone. In an early post they mentioned they were hiring. But then they mentioned Tokyo, Bangalore, and their lunar April Fool's joke in the same breath. Was that supposed to be funny? Ironic? Placed there to indicate that they aren't really *that* serious about looking for new hires? I didn't get it.

Readers who have been following this topic already might have heard that something was posted and then changed without comment. This was covered by many Web sites, including Gary Price's ( http://www.resourceshelf.com/archives/2004_05_01_resourceshelf_archive.html#108425081460672812 ). Google has addressed that with a recent posting and a clarification of attribution and "voice of authority" in their posts. Good for them for speaking up.

Posted in the following categories: Search Engines-Google | TrackBack
Take this title and: Google It | Yahoo It | Teoma It | Gigablast It | Amazon It