Web Application(s)

I was asked to share with the class about a Web application that I was familiar with. I use (2) Google web application products, one is Google Maps and the other is Google Earth. For Google Maps, there is no software that you download onto your pc, but for Google Earth you have to download & load the software to your pc before using the program.

Google Maps is a mapping service web application. This service is provided by Google for free. Google Maps can provide high-resolution satellite images for most urban areas in the United States. I basically use Google Maps to locate restaurants’ addresses. Some even use Google Maps on their smart phones for gps directions, though I haven’t tried it. Some others use Google Maps for tactical purposes. The person can now use Google Maps with a click of the mouse to get aerial view photos of a site instead of doing a drive-by to take photos.

Another Google related product, Google Earth, is a virtual globe, map and geographic information program that provide more globe-viewing features than Google Maps. Google Earth uses many map-based services, including the Google Maps’ website. Google Earth displays satellite images of varying resolution of the Earth's surface, allowing users to view things like cities and houses from an aerial view perspective. Some use Google Earth to visit their old stomping grounds, to see their old neighborhood.

Both Google Maps and Google Earth have some flaws in their websites. In Google Maps there are some inaccuracies, i.e. like a street address shown on Google Maps could actually be a few streets/blocks off course! In Google Earth’s database, there are some old aerial view photos that are not the ‘up-to-date’ aerial view photos. Others have criticized Google Earth for invasion of privacy.

Regardless of the few flaws and criticism, I think Google is constantly trying to improve their products. I still find Google Maps very helpful and I still use it a lot.