Google Maps and Neogeography

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Neogeography is a user-generated type of mapping. It is user-eccentric, meaning the creators of these maps could add their own contents and have their own theme. The purpose of these maps is so that one can find things easier, as opposed to sifting through unrelated data on the map. Store Locators are examples of neogeography.

The potentials for neogeography are great. Since the user is able to control the type of contents that will be shown on the map, one could expect a neogeographic map to contain detailed information on certain locations. There is a limitation to this in that it does not show ALL the locations. It may be detailed, but it will only show information that the creator of the map has or is in favor of. For an example, if one where to search for a map of local hamburger joints, a neogeographic map would show locations of hamburger joints that are nearby. However, the creator of this map most likely only included the hamburger joints that he/she has been to before, or is a favorite, thus the map might not show all the nearby joints.

Another great potential is the detailed information that can come with the locations. For store locators, it will list not only the addresses of the stores, but perhaps also where to find parking, or hours of operations. For hamburger joints, it could come with the address and some reviews about that joint. For camp sites, it may show the price of renting and if there is access to a bathroom. A limitation to these detailed locations is that it may not show all the information that is being searched for. Users might want to know more than just reviews of the hamburger joints, such as the prices and how the atmosphere is. Users may want to know if the drive up to certain camp sites are easier than others. There are just some information that is hard to convey in maps.

In conclusion, neogeography is a useful field in that it provides detailed information for users who are searching for specific things. It is also a way to share memories and events with friends, or personalizing regions around you. This could be beneficial to users if they're purposes where to re-live moments, or to understand your stories. Or, it could be beneficial if one were just simply searching for a good place to eat. There are, however, some information that is hard to convey through these maps.