12,000 people have taken a blind taste test. You do a search you’re familiar with, it shows you the results from Google, MSN and Yahoo. Which is the most relevant, it asks?

Almost 60% of those tested said that Yahoo or MSN was the most relevant.

Which reinforces my point that Google isn’t "better" for most people if "better" means more relevant or deeper. Google is better because it feels better and quicker and leaner and easier to use. The story we tell ourselves about Google is very different, and we use it differently as a result. Think about that the next time you insist you need a "better" formula or a faster server or a stronger first baseman.

Music sounds better through an iPod because we think it does. Design matters. Stories matter most of all. (note: I’ve adjusted some of the numbers on this post, because I, um, read them wrong. Sorry.)