Google has been rolling out an update to its local ratings system. As you may recall, Google recently made some changes to the system on Google Maps for Android, so users can choose between Poor/Fair, Good, Very Good, and Excellent. A similar system is now hitting the desktop experience.
Google’s Megan Stevenson posted the following to Google+ on Wednesday:
Update to the Reviewing Scale on Google+ Local
Today it’s easier than ever to write accurate, useful reviews on Google+ Local, thanks to the updated rating scale we rolled out. If you want to rate the food at a restaurant, or the quality of a mechanic, just choose "poor – fair," “good,” “very good,” or "excellent". Behind the scenes, we’ll convert your ratings into numbers and factor them into the business' precise 30-point score that shows up in Google+, Search and Maps.
Give it a try! Click on the Google+ Local icon in the left navigation bar, search for a local spot and click "Write a review.” Happy reviewing!
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2 When Google announced the Android changes, it also launched “favorite” stars on the desktop experience (or brought them back rather).
Google’s ratings system, since the implementation of Google+ Local (taking the place of the old Google Places) has been the subject of some controversy with local businesses. Some claimed to be losing clicks, and others have had issues with reviews being deleted.
