Google Smartens Search with Knowledge Graph

Jumping to Google to find something on the web is second nature to most Internet users. With Knowledge Graph, unveiled by Google earlier this week, instead of using the search engine only to find the most reliable websites in response to a search query, Google results now provide more information directly to users without having to visit other sites.

For instance, a search for “Benjamin Franklin” pulls up your standard web results such as his Wikipedia page, other encyclopedias, and educational resources. The Knowledge Graph comes into play in a new sidebar on the right side of the screen. The sidebar results for Benjamin Franklin include some key biographical information, such as his date of birth and death, as well as his bibliography, educational background, and links to similar searches (such as Thomas Jefferson).

Instead of navigating users to other websites, like its standard search results, clicking any of the links or images that appear in the Knowledge Graph triggers a brand new Google search. For example, to learn about any of Benjamin Franklin’s children, users can simply click their name in the Knowledge Graph to automatically conduct a search for that person.

Ultimately the restructured search results allow for a more comprehensive and educational experience with each query. There is already talk of other major search engines changing in response to the Knowledge Graph.  Microsoft, for one, has announced an upcoming overhaul of Bing. Users should expect others to similarly follow in Google’s footsteps in the coming months.