Practical decisions · evidence · delivery
Measure local visibility across locations without misleading averages
A local rank grid is a set of observations from defined geographic points. It can reveal where visibility differs, but the map is a measurement sample rather than a promise about every customer’s search results.
Choose the question before drawing the grid
Define the real service area, query, language, device and result type. A map-pack observation is not an organic website position. Keep the grid centre, spacing and sampling schedule consistent. Do not enlarge the grid after a good result or move the centre between reports without marking the change. Include commercially relevant areas, not only points close to the premises.
Keep missing observations visible
Record points with no result, collection failures and results outside the tracked depth separately. An average calculated only from successful top-ten observations can conceal poor coverage. Show the point count and the rule used to summarise positions. Distinguish an unavailable observation from a confirmed absence; neither should silently disappear from the denominator.
Connect the map to legitimate improvements
Investigate business information, category relevance, useful location content and the customer journey. Distance is part of local search context and cannot be removed through a setting. Compare consistent samples before and after a verified change and consider competitor movement. Validate useful enquiries or store actions separately; a greener map does not itself establish new customers.
Illustrative scenario
A Taastrup service business observes nine fixed points for one relevant query. The report retains two points without a visible listing and one collection failure. It compares the same locations next month rather than reporting only the six favourable readings.
Acceptance checklist
- Grid, query and collection context remain comparable
- Missing and unsuccessful measurements are labelled
- Customer actions are assessed independently of rank colour
Use this in a Gavek engagement
Discuss the relevant task and agree the inputs, implementation responsibilities and review criteria before work starts. The guide describes an approach; scope and price depend on the actual project.
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Primary references
Reviewed 4 November 2026. The decision methods and labelled examples are original Gavek editorial guidance. References support the underlying technical or platform principles; they do not endorse the service or guarantee results.
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