What Is Vertical Search? How Does It Relate to SEO?

What Is Vertical Search?

Vertical search is a type of search engine that is specifically designed for users who want to search for a niche topic or industry.

Unlike a general search, which typically returns results from a variety of topics, this specialized search engine shows relevant results within a specific and targeted category.

You may know Google as a general search engine. But, in fact, it also offers several specialized search tools, such as Google Images, Google News, Google Books, and others.

These specialized search tools use Google's algorithmic system, but limit the search to specific content types, allowing users to find more detailed information within categories such as images, news articles, or books.

Why Is Vertical Search Important?

The standard search that we use every day is the horizontal type of search, where the input of a keyword generates a wide range of results. Unfortunately, for some users, finding information that truly matches their search intent can be time-consuming.

This challenge has led to the innovation of specialized search. Vertical specialized search is a breakthrough that makes it easier for users to search for specific topics or categories because the results are tailored to be highly relevant.

On the other hand, specialized search is also beneficial for business owners. Your business will be more easily discovered by an audience with a strong intent to buy your product or use your service.

Plus, you don't have to compete with sites that are less relevant to your business's topic and niche.

The Relationship Between Vertical Search and SEO

The algorithm for specialized search may differ from the general Google search algorithm. It is important to understand the rules and algorithm of each Google search feature in order to achieve high rankings.

For example, in Google Images, Google will rank an image based on the alt text, the file name of the image, and the title.

Another customization might be that if your business is in the travel industry, you can use keywords that include the location and type of travel services you offer.

On the other hand, if your business is in the healthcare industry, you need to provide accurate and reliable information to build business credibility.

SEO in vertical specialized search requires a specialized approach that is tailored to the specific industry and topic characteristics. You must proactively research and adapt your content according to the vertical algorithm and guidelines.

Effective use of SEO in specialized search can increase the visibility and relevance of your content. It can also improve the overall user experience (UX).

Examples of Google Vertical Search Engines

Google vertical search engines are a type of specialized search tool provided by Google to help users get more focused and relevant information based on specific categories.

Here are a few examples of Google's specialized search engines:

Google News

The first example of a Google vertical search engine is Google News. Google News is designed to help users create search results that include news articles from a variety of sources that meet Google's requirements, quality standards, and vertical search guidelines.

Google News is used to present news from around the world in a structured way and helps users find the latest news based on topics they are interested in.

Google Images

Another Google tool that falls under a specific search engine is Google Images. This feature helps users find visual images relevant to keywords from websites across the internet.

Google Images displays search results specifically for photos, illustrations, graphics, or other types of specific visuals.

Google Books

Google Books is a search engine that allows users to search, view reviews, and read digitally scanned books by Google.

This Google tool is designed to give users access to a diverse collection of books from around the world, covering a variety of topics.

Google Books also provides book specifications, reviews, and the option to buy or borrow books online.

Google Scholar

Like other search engines, Google Scholar is designed to display specialized search results, such as academic journals, conference papers, books, and other official documents.

The search results on Google Scholar mostly come from authoritative sites like universities, professional organizations, academic publishers, and reputable institutions.

With Google Scholar, users can find relevant and reliable references to support academic research, explore citations from various scholarly works, and stay updated on the latest developments in their field of interest.

Google Maps

Google Maps is a digital mapping service that provides street views of specific locations or areas. It is commonly used by users to find directions, view traffic conditions, and explore nearby places or businesses.

Additionally, Google Maps helps users locate places like hotels, stations, tourist attractions, and landmarks, as well as provides business information such as operating hours and customer reviews.

As a specialized search engine, Google Maps performs location-specific searches, indexing detailed location data such as street names, addresses, geographical coordinates, business descriptions, and photos.

Google Flights

Google Flights is one of Google’s search engine tools that can be used to search and compare prices as well as schedules from various airlines.

This platform makes it easier for users to plan their trips with features like price tracking and flight notifications.

Additionally, Google Flights provides comprehensive information on layover times, and alternative flight schedules, while also offering the best options based on price and flight duration.