The new beta version of Yellowpages.com boasts many functional changes and improvements that will definitely appeal to a wide cross-section of users. Though Yellowpages.com is already positioned well in the local search world thanks to its strong brand presence, sales channel assets, and mobile and video initiatives they recently revamped the site and added key features.

Their new design has been described as sharper, more intuitive, and includes slick new features (Click-to-Call) and the welcome integration of user ratings and reviews.

The improved interface of the new site will also serve to boost other IYP efforts, such as small business video advertising integration and their text-based local search tool for mobile devices.

Since last March, mobile phone users have been able to send a business name or category in a text message to YP411. They receive a message with the three top listings for the specific term that they searched for.

This mobile search feature will surely complement other mobile services they have rolled out recently, such as the send-to-mobile feature that lets business listings be texted to any mobile phone number a user specifies.

Combined with the recent sales expansion of company, these progressive changes and enhancements signify a clear push for Yellowpages.com to redefine itself and strengthen its position in the local search space.

As mentioned in a recent blog entry (A Sneak Peek into IPTV), Yellowpages.com is also interested in integrating video to the site, as well as launching bundled sales efforts for small businesses. According to the Kelsey Group, this would take the form of small video windows that would accompany individual listings and be sold as additional ad units or upsells to print and online listings.

The Kelsey Group is optimistic about this video feature: Given the company’s strong sales assets and the ability to bundle such a complimentary ad offering beginning to show demand and adoption among SMBs, it will be positioned well to have a big part in the online video trend.