Introduction to Bing Places for Business
Microsoft has recently launched a redesigned version of its Bing Places for Business platform. This platform allows businesses to create and manage their listings across Bing Search and Bing Maps at no cost. The new design aims to make it easier for businesses to find and use the product by consolidating the experience under the Bing.com domain.
Why the Redesign?
The redesign of Bing Places for Business was prompted by feedback from business owners who found the old platform difficult to discover, navigate, and use. Microsoft spent months researching and listening to the concerns of business owners before rebuilding the platform. The goal was to create a more user-friendly and efficient experience for managing business listings.
New Features
The redesigned platform includes several new features that aim to improve the experience for business owners. These features include:
Improved Google Business Profile Import
The new platform allows for easier import of Google Business Profiles, preserving key attributes such as names, hours, and contact details. This feature is particularly useful for multi-location brands and agencies, as it enables more efficient management of listings.
Recommendation Tool
A new Recommendation Tool has been introduced to help business owners evaluate the health of their listings and suggest specific additions. This tool can recommend items such as photos, website and social links, hours, and category-specific items. For example, restaurants can add menu links or online ordering options.
Automatic Migration
Current Bing Places users will be automatically migrated to the new platform, and their listings will be redirected to the new experience. This ensures a seamless transition for existing users.
What’s Next?
Microsoft has announced that more updates will be rolled out in the coming months. These updates will include deeper integrations with Bing Maps and Copilot, as well as expanded support for agencies and partners.
Why It Matters
Having a Bing Places profile is important for businesses, as it can appear in Bing search results and on Bing Maps. This includes map results and place pages that people see when they click through for directions, call, or website info. By claiming and keeping their listing up to date, businesses can ensure that accurate location, hours, and contact details are displayed across Bing’s local results and Maps.
Availability
The new Bing Places for Business platform is now live at bing.com/forbusiness. Businesses can create and manage their listings at no cost, and take advantage of the new features and improved user experience.
Conclusion
The redesigned Bing Places for Business platform is a significant improvement over the old platform. With its new features and improved user experience, it provides businesses with an easier way to manage their listings and improve their online presence. By taking advantage of the new platform, businesses can ensure that their listings are accurate and up to date, and that they are visible to potential customers on Bing Search and Bing Maps.