Homepage: http://www.google.com/
Summary
While Google doesn’t have any textual summary on the front page, it is hard to miss what it’s all about - searching. In fact, that’s effectively all you can do from the front page. You may not understand why it’s called Google, but you don’t need to to know what Google is offering.
Products/Services
Again, as the primary option on this page is the large search box in the middle of the page it’s fairly clear what services Google offers. There are also two links below the search box — “Services and Tools” and “Business Solutions” that can give you more help if you’re still not sure.
Links to More Information
What Google lacks is an easy way to find out more about the company. I clicked on “Jobs, Press, & Help” and from there “Corporate Info”. The information was a bit cute, which made it hard to understand, so I clicked on “Google at a glance” in the left navigation. There I found a clearer explanation of what Google is.
Above the Fold
Everything about Google’s front page is above the fold. This page is very clean and self-descriptive. Most companies would have a hard time narrowing their focus down to this fine, laser-like point — but if you strive for this much clarity, your customers (new and old) will thank you.
About Google
“Google is a privately held and profitable company focused on search services. Named for the mathematical term “googol”, Google operates a web site at www.google.com that is widely recognized as the “World’s Best Search Engine” and is fast, accurate and easy to use. The company also serves corporate clients with cost-effective advertising targeted by keyword and with breakthrough search technology that makes it easy for visitors to find the information they need, whether on a client’s web site or elsewhere on the Internet.”
from the Google at a Glance page.
