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02/28/2005 Archived Entry: "Google Maps, Maps On Us"

It's still in beta testing, but Google Maps are something to keep an eye on for those of us (most of us?) who at least occasionally look at maps or get directions online. This isn't "just" another Mapquest-type service, although it has its similarities. The biggest difference is that the maps are instantly scrollable with just a click and drag action, and can mark searched locations clearly and easily. You can easily get to/from directions for any point, including turn by turn directions to print. And you can follow the recommended route turn by turn at any level of magnification, scrolling with that click and drag action -- really nice to get a good visual overview of the trip. None of the other online services offer anything quite like this yet. And Google promises more features yet before the service is out of beta. The current version works with Internet Explorer 5.5 or newer, the latest version of Apple's Safari browser, and may work with others, too, but not with all browsers.

Another interesting mapping service that you may or may not have seen is Maps On Us by Switchboard.com. It's similar to MapQuest.com and others, but has some nice features, too. I often check more than one service for directions; even though they're based on the same government maps, they use different methods of obtaining results, and sometimes display them quite differently. A second opinion is always nice, and MapsOnUs is great for a second opinion.