I think that Google does a much better job compared to MSN and Yahoo when communicating with the webmaster community, via Matt Cutts, GoogleGuy and the contact links they provide. Do the others even try? No. MSN Dude is probably too busy dodging chairs.

Read: http://www.mattcutts.com/blog/ especially the 10/19/05 entry. Use the feedback links.

Again, this update is apparently still in the early stages. I've seen sites in my niche dissapear for months, then reappear, for no known reason. For all I know I could be next. Easilly.

I use sub menu's at the top of my pages along with side bar navigation menu's. Anchor text is keyword rich, but not spammy. You're right, MSN and Yahoo love it. Google... If not love, indulgence? It is interesting to play jester for three kings.

I also feel for the people that are suffering with this update, but do not think that the timing is a problem. Changes have been happening all along; perhaps people are just more sensitive to them at this time of year.

To say Google is not trying to communicate is not correct. Read Cutts blog, use the feedback links - especially if you can help with clearly documented examples of errors/problems.