Google’s URL shortener – goo.gl – is now open to the public.   Take note of the fact that all goo.gl URLs and click analytics are public and can be shared by anyone.  Does this mean that we should already  have been taking note of what we ‘shorten’ and which services we use?

Of course, as @khokanson reminded me – it really helps if you have the capability to customize the URL.  I often use the customization feature to create a url that is easy for my students to understand. Google url shortener doesn’t seem to offer this service – at the moment anyway.

In addition,  sophisticated users can also add a QR code (Quick Response code) which contains much metadata; a QR code can be read by scanners and mobile devices.  Is this a good thing? Yes, if you are running a website and are interested in analytics.

Related Articles

• The Shortened Guide to Goo.gl (marketingpilgrim.com)
• Google Offers its own URL Shortener (newtrierlibrary.blogspot.com)
• Goo.gl Shortens URLs… And Adds QR Codes (ryanspoon.com)