Definition of Google Attributes

Programmers need to understand HTTP and Atom when writing Google attributes.

Developers who use Google Base data API need to understand Google Base terminology in order to search, discover, insert, update and delete metadata or data items. The terminology is primarily used by programmers that write applications specific to Google Base. Using these terms is much easier if you are familiar with Hypertext Transfer Protocol or HTTP, as well as the Atom syndication format, the XML content and metadata format.

Basics

Google, a Web-based search engine that processes over a billion hits daily, utilizes a standard for developing how information is applied, stored and retrieved. This standard, or protocol, makes it easier for developers to write code in order to design new Google applications, often refered to as "services" such as calendars and spreadsheets. Google is responsible for hosting and developing a list of Web-based products and services, including AdWords, a cost-per-click program.

Google Terminology

Even if you already understand XML, it would be helpful to understand terms specific to Google Base because Google presents and defines terms somewhat differently than the XML standard. For instance, data items are defined as a single data entry in XML, but encompass a set of predefined "attributes" in Google Base.

Attributes

A simplistic explanation of attributes is a typed name and or value pairs, which define or describe content or data. A single attribute connects a value with an attribute label or name, which describes the data. For instance, this entry, <g:label>blue silk scarf</g:label> denotes the attribute "label". Another text attribute could be an [item type: products] (scarf | "blue silk"). Users can conduct a query on blue scarf, or blue silk scarf.

Queries

Because Google is a searchable database, you find the information you are looking for through a query. You can search attributes such as "products" or "price" for instance, by designating a single word or term, or by entering a phrase. You can also conduct a query on the type or kind of item you are looking for as well. You can also search by the attributes of an item. The more specific your query, the more narrow, or the fewer, more relevant responses you will receive.

References

• Google Code; Attributes and Queries