7Search and Google, The Same.. Yet Different!

It is easy to see why many of the advertisers who decide to move their Google advertising over to 7Search are of the mindset that nothing will change. Many assume that because both are paid search platforms that everything will remain the same. Maybe in a perfect world this would be the case but as we all know our world is far from perfect. This simply means that switching from one advertising platform to another will require some adjustments to be made.

For starters, it would be a good idea to start by accepting that there is guaranteed to be differences between the previous ad platform and the new one. While they may offer the same service they will, no doubt, have different sets of policies, procedures and guidelines required for using their sites. Let’s examine some of the differences between using Google as opposed to 7Search. One of the main differences in these two search engines is that Google is considered a first tier search engine while 7Search is a second tier. Just to make sure we are all on the same page here is a brief explanation of what makes a search engine either first or second tier as noted on Search Engine Watch.

VOLUME

“Google and Yahoo/Bing account for the vast majority of U.S. search market share and ad spend -- they are referred to in our industry as "Tier 1" search providers… most recent Nielsen statistics show that 92 percent of searches occur on these three search engines”. “Ad networks, those players who monetize traffic that doesn't originate on the major search engines, are traditionally referred to as "Tier 2" providers”. This tier contains the remaining 8 percent of the market share. Considering the significant difference in market share between the two it’s only logical that one would expect higher search traffic volume from a 1st tier engine as opposed to a 2nd tier as is the case with Google and 7Search. This would explain why advertisers who are used to receiving a substantially larger amount of clicks from Google may experience less volume when running ads on the 7Search network.

FEATURES

I have heard many advertisers new to the 7Search network inquire about features such as split A/B testing, Analytics and/or Banner ads and others. Both search engines have a pretty good selection of features to choose from that are also similar in function. Even though you will find that these features will accomplish the same tasks it is still important to know how to properly use them and whether or not there are any limitations when using one or the other. Let’s take a look at the differences in a few of the similar features available on both Google & 7Search:

AD ROTATION

Google offers: Split A/B Testing which allows different versions of an ad to rotate/display simultaneously testing one ads effectiveness over another. 7search offers: Ad Scheduling which allows multiple ads to be placed on a time schedule. One ad displays for a determined period of time and is then taken offline at which point another version on the ad begins to display in search results.

ANALYTICS

Google Offers: Google analytics, which offers advertisers such information as visits (clicks), time on site, specific page views, traffic source id and more. 7Search offers: Visits (clicks), CPC, conversions received, keywords searched and more. NOTE: While both platforms offer there own version of analytics, advertisers must be aware that certain analytics data that may be available on Google may not be available on 7Search. To find out if certain statistical data is available it is best to inquire with the 7Search support staff for more details.

IMAGE ADVERTISING

Google offers: Banners advertising is available on the Google Network

7Search Offers: No banner or image ads. 7Search only offers text advertising.

Match Type:

Google offers: Broad, Phrase, Exact & Negative keyword match type

7Search offers: Broad, Phrase, Exact & Negative keyword match type.

QUALITY SCORE/PLACEMENT

On the Google Adwords program, ads receiving more clicks will usually achieve a higher ranking position automatically even if they are not bidding higher then their competitors. These ads are considered by Google to have a higher relevancy factor as well as a more compelling ad. 7Search does not operate under the quality score system. On 7Search.com your bid amount determines your ad rank… period.

These are only a few of the differences between Google and 7Search. The idea here is to take note of the fact that there will most assuredly be differences between one pay-per-click company and another. As an online marketer, the key is simply to find the one that offers you the options and features that best fit your advertising needs.