SevenCubed - 2:58 pm on Jun 24, 2011 (gmt 0)

I intentionally typed "US", as in "we", not "U.S." (as in "U.S.A.").

Noted. Either way I wasn't singling you out, I quoted that simply to point out that the root of the problem is global in nature. Based on your history of posts I see that is indeed your style and that is what not intended to be U.S.

...almost every big domain registrar offers free sites, as do lots of other providers...

Yes but by the mere fact that the person was on their site to begin with says they intended to build a site. The Domain Registrar or Hosting company providing the additional option of free site-builder software isn't a matter of pursuit, they are just being helpful. Google's approach is very clearly to hand out free crack to those not actively seeking web development services. Get them in the door, get them addicted, then push AdWords. Those Canadian companies that have had their palms greased are most likely actively promoting this service off-line through their B&M services. Domain Registrars or hosting companies do not set up active promotional campaigns to bring awareness to free site building software, they simply provide it to customers as a value added service for doing business with them.

You should look on this as freeing your talents for more demanding work. I actually intend to tell someone who approached me wanting a small cheap site done to use one of the free services.

I've worked in the corporate culture world for 25 years. The last 10, prior to becoming self-employed, was in IT for quite a few of the large multi-national corporations. I do not want to go back to that, never. The dog eat dog mentalities in those environments is poison. So, this is where I choose to direct my talents, being accessible to small mom and pop shops that cannot afford the often-times steep prices associated with developing and maintaining an internet presence. I provide that service at very affordable rates, and I get them to first page SERP for local search -- it's my strength. I get enjoyment and satisfaction out of seeing them grow because I continue to work very closely with them after a site goes live. Additionally my 25+ years of work experience in so many different fields provides me with an ability to mentor those just starting out on their own. Small cheap sites, with professional quality attention and service is my niche, because I live a simple lifestyle. Google is assaulting that niche out of greed, not for wanting to be helpful, their reason is self serving, just like...

I learn the system well and exploit the hell out of it for personal gain.

My preference is globalization and sharing the abundant opportunities so everyone can potentially enjoy an opportunity to afford to raise a family, provide basic food and shelter, and live and learn about how to defeat the EGO.

@elguiri -- thanks for lightening the mood here :)