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Google SERP Test: Hugging The Left Margin, Freeing Space For…

Mick Higgins | December 2nd, 2010
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I stumbled upon a change Google seems to be testing for the search results page.

The change is visible when logged out of all Google accounts and is most apparent when viewed in a maximized browser window.

In the test the left margin is completely dropped and the search results are shifted to the left creating a large amount of space on the right for perhaps more local maps? paid advertising?

Check out this simple search for Chinese Restaurant Toronto. I love Chinese food 🙂

Regular SERP (Logged In)

Google regular SERP: margins left & right 
* maximized browser window to illustrate white space

The traditional view with a white margin on the left and right of the search results; the space in the left margin has always been vacant.

Left Side Hugging SERP (Logged Out)

Now, when not logged into any Google account this is how the search results page look:

Google SERP test: no left margin?
* maximized browser window to illustrate white space

Youll notice that all the results have been shifted to the left opening a large amount of space to the right of the map.

Before & After

As seen on a regular monitor, regular browser size.

Google margin SERP test before & after

Whats Up?

With instant previews overlapping the right sidebar and instant search changing what ads are shown at lightning speed, does Google need to free up this space to better make place for existing ad placements or is it looking to ad something new?

Here are some things Google may be planning for this enlarged right margin:

1.       Video advertising

2.       Social media integration with Twitter (Ed.: they wish!)

3.       Enhanced local product offering

Try it for yourself, log out and try a search! What do you think Google is planning?

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Posted in Web Design

About the Author: Mick Higgins

A marketing graduate with itchy feet, I moved to Canada from my native Ireland in late 2009. My passions are marketing, media, advertising and sports.

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