Contextual Search

• A search that analyzes the page being viewed by a user and gives a list of related search results.

Google’s Gmail is the best example of this.  Have you ever looked at the right side of the window when you’re looking through your Gmail?  What they’re doing is the epitome of contextual search – your friend sends you an email about what to do for a friend’s birthday gift.  The ads on the side of the page are going to show you sponsored ads on gift sites, party planning, event space, etc. that could relate to a birthday party.

This is the best example of targeted ads, as well.  Showing the casual browser products they might be interested in is one step in the right direction towards turning a browser into a buyer – sometimes you don’t know you’re looking for something until you see it.

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Glossary Definition From ABC’s of Online Marketing by Alexandra Wharton, Issue 22, Revenue Magazine

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