What'z New Today - Google's Think Quarterly

 

On Thursday, the tech giant Google launched Think Quarterly, a publication aimed at advertisers and partners in the U.K. For the first issue, Google has chosen a theme near and dear to its heart: data.

“At Google, we often think that speed is the forgotten 'killer application' – the ingredient that can differentiate winners from the rest,” said Matt Brittin, managing director of Think Quarterly. “We know that the faster we deliver results, the more useful people find our service.

“But in a world of accelerating change, we all need time to reflect. Think Quarterly is a breathing space in a busy world. It's a place to take time out and consider what's happening and why it matters,” Brittin added.

The 68-page book leaps right into the impact data are having on business today, and it's an absolute visual stunner. Designed by the creative group The Church of London, the book reads like an insider guide with a euro spin.

According to Mashable, Google has snagged up some decisive talent for the project, with The Guardian's Simon Rogers and WE magazine's Ulrike Reinhard jumping aboard.

Although it's an interesting step for Google, it is not necessarily made with a U.S. audience in mind. Interviews with Vodaphone U.K. CEO Guy Laurence and data expert Hans Rosling might just turn off the most casual of readers from the U.S. Other articles feature talks with Google chief economist Hal Varian and Google director of research Tony Fagan.

But ease of reading is not what Google is aiming for with Think Quarterly.

This is a wonky magazine shooting for the wonkiest of readers.

The first issue is dedicated to answering the question, "Amongst a morass of information, how can you find the magic metrics that will help transform your business?"

The book, as the company calls it, will not be sold for profit.

In a statement Google said, "Like most companies we regularly communicate with our business customers via email newsletters, updates on our official blogs, and printed materials. This short book about data was sent to 1,500 of our UK partners and advertisers."

The next edition set to launch in May, with new issues for advertisers and partners coming out every few months.