Google Local Search Algorithm Explored

Matt McGee’s 10 Likely Elements of Google’s Local Search Algorithm explores what makes Google Local different from Google.com algorithmically. Here they are in summary:

1. Use of Google’s Local Business Center (LBC)
2. Availability/Trust of other business data
3. A Business Web Site
4. Listings in 2nd-tier Local Directories
5. Listings in Vertical Directories
6. References from other Web sites
7. Reviews
8. Proximity to location
9. Location Prominence and User Query
10. Use of other Google services