Ask is bringing back its Jeeves character
Internet search engine Ask.com has decided to revert to its original name Ask Jeeves in the UK after just three years, following new market research carried out by the firm.
The Ask Jeeves name was originally created in 1997, inspired by the famous PG Wodehouse character who "embodies the spirit of British resourcefulness", according to the firm.
After polling more than 2,000 UK adults, the internet firm decided to revive the character because user feedback suggested it inspired positive feelings.
“We know from research that they love Jeeves and strongly associate him with providing answers," said Ask Jeeves UK managing director, Cesar Mascaraque.
"Jeeves brings warmth and humanity to the search experience, and thanks to the enhancements we have made to our site, he is even better at providing answers than ever before, so bringing him back is a perfect fit."
The firm will be hoping the makeover helps to grow its popularity. Although Ask claims to have 15 million monthly UK users, the firm currently languishes in sixth place in terms of global market share, with just 0.99 per cent.
The news comes just six months after the launch of the search engine's new web site, which was designed to offer user interface improvements as well as lower latency and enhanced relevancy.
© Incisive Media Investments Limited 2010, Published by Incisive Financial Publishing Limited, Haymarket House, 28-29 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4RX, are companies registered in England and Wales with company registration numbers 04252091 & 04252093
Do you agree?
Jeeves and the New World
What about us over in America and Canada? We love our Jeeves too!
Posted by Sara, 20 Apr 2009
ask.com
Interesting! I never liked "ask jeeves" as a brand! I prefer 'ask'
Doing a quick research thru the uspto.gov, it appears that they recently apllied for the mark "ask" for social networking but the US trademark office refused its registration.
susan
Posted by susan, 20 Apr 2009
Ask Google
Desperate attempt to win back users if you ask me. What possible reason would i want to use ask.com? I have google :) i'm very satisfied with google, i use my email with them, i search with them, i look at maps with them, i blog with them, i watch google video often, its a calculator. I have no reason what so ever to use ask. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with ask jeeves but i'll never switch from google.
Posted by brian, 20 Apr 2009