There are a few things that come into this question that's based around Google+ reviews (formerly Google places).
I have always been advised to get as many reviews as possible on my Google+ business page in order to improve rankings. The idea is that the more positive reviews you have, the higher you will be shown in the results. How important does Google consider these reviews when ranking local businesses?
The next part of this question is based on the likelihood of Google using these in the future. I have already noticed the change from places to Google+ and recently I have noticed that when I search the exact business name, the details on the right hand side (small map, photos, opening hours etc.) have seem to had been removed. Does this suggest a possible change?
The last part of this question is based around reviews as a bigger picture. Should I look to gain reviews with just Google, or would I be better off using several review sites (directory listings etc. all see to have reviews now).
I have always been faced with a difficult question. I have the opportunity to send my clients somewhere to leave a review, so where should I send them? There are so many sites now that offer reviews.