I would worry that this system makes it possible to make money while hurting the businesses. In other words, people might submit reports on a business without really talking to the owner or after talking to the owner without really explaining what is happening. Also, it provides a mechanism to get back at a business you don't like, that might sound odd, but submitting photos that highlight the negative can really kill a business. The question is will Google examine a submittal to the level necessary to ensure the business is being treated fairly? I personally think they won't, otherwise there really is no point in hiring outside contractors to do this.
Really, this is a case where Google is assuming the good nature of the contractors - having been involved in small business before, I don't trust contractors (even college students) who are doing something for money.
Slashdot Mirror
I would worry that this system makes it possible to make money while hurting the businesses. In other words, people might submit reports on a business without really talking to the owner or after talking to the owner without really explaining what is happening. Also, it provides a mechanism to get back at a business you don't like, that might sound odd, but submitting photos that highlight the negative can really kill a business. The question is will Google examine a submittal to the level necessary to ensure the business is being treated fairly? I personally think they won't, otherwise there really is no point in hiring outside contractors to do this. Really, this is a case where Google is assuming the good nature of the contractors - having been involved in small business before, I don't trust contractors (even college students) who are doing something for money.