Here’s an interesting (but unverified) factoid about the halo effect that occurs from Google’s branding. This popped up in an Adage article a few days ago:
“[...] Google has conducted internal tests, according to people familiar with them, in which the company put its logo and treatment on another engine’s search results. Users still prefer the results with the Google logo, even if they’re not Google results.” (Abbey Klaassen; May 25, 2009)
→ Read full article: ‘Is the new Microsoft Search ready to rumble?’
Thanks to James Wragg for the link.
“logo and treatment”
Its the “treatment” that’s important.
I like google for plain display of information, its minimalist design at its best.