tangor - 8:41 am on May 2, 2009 (gmt 0)

I see it as managed returns (for Google). Making sure participants get something while paying to play. This is what I take away from all the conversations that occur here on WW and other places. Might be wrong, but that's what I hear from the rank and file. That's the way a casino works. :)

The Google money machine still works. I just don't think it works as efficiently as it once did, and that many of the players are finding that out. It also seems that Google is searching for the lowest common denominator to keep income generating (for them) while keeping the masses of potential revenue seekers satisfied with...lowest income possible. When dealing with several millions of players that makes sense. Those that can pay more to play get a shot at high stakes returns against investment. All the rest get something to make them think they have a chance.

Then again, I don't use Google for my on line sales. The niche focused is too small, too high priced, and word of mouth works better. There's also no middleman so ROI is spot on!