We’ve all dreamed about what we could do if we were able to foresee the future and most of us I guess would probably make ourselves rich and then work to avoid oncoming disasters in that order. So when Google announced recently that it could do just that, predict the future, it made us really sit up and take notice.

The news relates to the latest release of Google Insights which forecasts what will be searched for in the future, based upon past and current search trends. In Google’s own words Insights means that marketers can now plan future campaigns more effectively, allocating budget and resources appropriately. A compelling argument considering that everyday millions of people tell Google what they’re looking to purchase.

And it’s not only marketers who stand to benefit. Given that we also search for information on health issues, public services, transport links and education. The information we generate could potentially be used by governments to help predict economic activity and plan budgets more effectively, meaning everyone gains.

From our perspective then, full marks to Google as Insights is further evidence of them adhering to their stated intention of sharing information, the importance of which should not be underestimated. Though as a final thought, we would suggest that it’s equally beneficial when people publish there wants and needs in a more open and direct manner, something inherent in what we are doing with Cofacio.