Google Redesign
I thought it was just me, but Google has, indeed, redesigned. While the product is most definitely evolutionary and not revolutionary, I agree with this article that the purpose is to polish and shine the service a bit more prior to Google’s IPO.
Google’s redesign gives Froogle one of the coveted links just above its search box. To make room, Google dropped a tab formerly reserved for its list of directories. As it did before, Google’s front page continues to feature prominent links to focus searches on “images,” “groups” and “news.”
However, the redesign is more than a link reshuffling. The overall look is certainly “flatter” while placing slightly more emphasis (catches the eye with a more intense green) on the URL’s that correspond to hits. While any addition of images would be a huge (in proportion to the text-only) increase in bandwidth for Google, I do think consideration of some other designs might be helpful in giving the site an even more concrete identity. Take the Design by Fire Google Redesign - it gives Google a bolder more sophisticated look while maintaing the simplicity and delivery of results that everyone has come to know and love Google for.
I think buying stock in Google would be an excellent idea. Very good management has allowed it to succeed in today’s cut-throat internet economy.