[paulcole]

> if I build a collection of the most polished tools that are pleasant to use, over time Google will start recommending them to more and more people

Why did you believe this?

[bruce511]

It's a variation on "if you build it, they will come." This is a massive myth which is basically taught at school level (hard work leads to rewards).

It is -really- hard to fight this myth because it "seems right" and because it is pervasive amongst the educator sector.

Unfortunately, as a reply to the original question, I'd say "you cannot build a business based on the goodwill of another unrelated party. Consider this a cheap life lesson, and modify your strategy appropriately."