Now this looks interesting, and I think there is some potential for this one. Google has just launched Google Trends. As with pretty much any Google product launch, it’s in beta.

It gives you data from about the start of 2004 to what I assume is the present. It’s not necessarily precise, as Google says in the About section, but it’s a good way to get an idea of how things go. You can also choose a particular year or month to look at to get a better feel for things.

I can especially see uses for this in looking at seasonal trends. Just think of all the things that tend to be searched for seasonally. This could be a way to decide what kind of website to launch or product pages to develop.

Another possibility is to keep an eye on what you think might be a new trend you want to work with. Think you’ve spotted something good? Take a look and see what the overall trend is.

This tool isn’t going to solve all your questions about which site to develop, but it has already given me something to think about on some sites I’m in the process of developing. Just add it to your research arsenal.