Google: I Love Thee, I Love Thee Not…

I spend a lot of my day here at Sundog doing research. I dig deep into the virtual world of homepages, blogs, and social networks for information on everything from the population of Sioux Falls, SD to comparisons of different Javascript libraries. In order to be successful in my quest for top-notch information, I certainly need a high-powered search engine that satisfies my cravings, er…my research needs. I’ve always thought this search engine was Google—the king of blue links and quick results. Based on a recent user satisfaction survey, however, it looks like I may want to reconsider.

Last week, a Reuters article announced the results of a University of Michigan American Consumer Satisfaction survey. The study shows Yahoo’s consumer satisfaction score up 3.9% since last year, to 79 out of 100 points, while Google’s score dropped 3.7% to 78 points. This is the first time Yahoo has edged Google in overall customer satisfaction.

Reasons for the change? The article notes that Yahoo’s user portal capabilities have become popular with users. Google has developed e-mail and desktop functions, but hasn’t put a lot of effort into marketing these applications. Also, according to an article, ironically posted, I may add, on the Yahoo Finance page, customers have come to know and trust Google. The site is reliable, and has proven solid, while some users are just beginning to develop a “relationship” with Yahoo.

Maybe Google die-hards like myself shouldn’t worry just yet. The Yahoo article notes that Google still continues to dominate search—the site accounted for 52.7% of all U.S. searches in June, while Yahoo held only 20.2%.

Well, time to get back to the research. Should I try Yahoo? Nah. I think I’ll listen to my own consumer voice and stick with Google...for now anyway.