A New Google: Building Habitual Recall and Community

A New Google: Building Habitual Recall and Community

"Come for search, stay for something else." This comment perfectly captures the challenge of creating a new search engine that can compete with Google. While Google initially gained popularity in 2000 because it was better than other search engines like Lycos or Excite, a similar effect is happening again today. Early adopters are no longer using Google as their go-to search engine. So, how can a new search engine build habitual recall and entice users to stay for something more?

One approach is to target specific verticals and build the best site for each one. Whether it's electric product search, travel, or code, focusing on a particular vertical allows for deep specialization and a unique user experience. By providing the most comprehensive and user-friendly search results in a specific area, users are more likely to turn to this new search engine for their needs.

But building a successful search engine is not just about delivering accurate results. It's about creating a destination for users, a place where they can find more than just search results. This is where the concept of community comes in. By fostering a sense of community within the search app, users are more likely to engage with the platform beyond simple searches. They can participate in discussions, leave comments, and share their insights and experiences. This not only adds value to the search app but also creates a habit of using it as a go-to resource.

In January 2022, the idea of incorporating in-line comments and discussions into the web emerged. The question was how to build a seamless commenting tool that encourages and supports people to write online outside of traditional platforms like Twitter. One potential solution is Glasp, a tool that allows users to highlight and leave notes on curated content. By making it easier for users to interact with the content they consume, Glasp could be the key to nurturing more online writers.

But building a successful search engine goes beyond just creating a platform for users to engage with. It also involves creating learning environments and experiences that make learning actually stick. How can a search engine contribute to the learning process? One idea is to incorporate personalized learning recommendations based on users' search history and interests. By suggesting relevant resources, courses, or articles, the search engine can become a valuable learning tool that keeps users coming back for more.

In conclusion, building a new search engine that can compete with Google requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves targeting specific verticals, building a sense of community, and incorporating tools like Glasp to encourage online writing. Additionally, creating learning environments and personalized learning recommendations can further enhance the user experience. By combining these strategies, a new search engine has the potential to not only attract users but also keep them coming back for more.

Actionable Advice:

1. Focus on a specific vertical and provide the best search experience in that area.
2. Create a sense of community within the search app to encourage user engagement and participation.
3. Incorporate tools like Glasp to make it easier for users to interact with curated content and nurture online writing.