Using Google Insights on e-invoicing and invoice automation

Common Body of Definitions?
In a former featured article, we discussed the need for a Common Body of Definitions. One of the reasons for a common body of definitions was that it would create a level playing field.

This level playing field could create a certain level of trust and recognition among organisations that plan to invest in e-invoicing or invoice automation. Therefore it could facilitate communications and marketing on e-invoicing and invoice automation.

Google Insights
In order to successfully create such a Body, it is necessary to connect to the needs and expectations of your target audience. And this is where Google Insights comes in. With Google Insights for Search, you can compare search volume patterns across specific regions, categories, time frames and properties.

For instance, with Google Insights you can narrow data down to specific categories, like finance, health and sports. It also allows to anticipate demand for your business so that you can budget and plan accordingly.

Google Insights also provides information on where to find your customers. See how search volume is distributed across regions and cities.

Einvoicing, e-invoicing, e-billing, or ebilling?
As an example we took the phrases ‘einvoicing’, ‘e-invoicing’, ‘e-billing’, ‘or ebilling’ and ran them through Google Insights. And this is what we’ve learned:

The phrases ‘ebilling’ and ‘e-billing’ are used the most in Google search queries. Positions three and four are claimed by ‘e-invoicing’ and ‘einvoicing’. (Maybe the EEI Platform should change its name…)

Well that is no rocket science. Neither is looking at the trends on these four phrases. Interestingly enough, the trend reports on Google Insights show two things. First, only the phrase ‘e-billing’ shows a considerable growth from January 2008 onwards. Second, there is no growth in Google search queries on the other ‘phrases’.

If the shoe fits, wear it
This is quite disturbing when looking at the initiatives already taking place. “If the shoe fits, wear it” is applicable to the EEI Platform. And to others.

We hope that our new website, community (including forum), monitor and conference – in cooperation with other initiatives – will co-facilitate a clear uptake of e-invoicing in Europe. And we are looking forward to other initiatives in Europe that support this too.