Summary

This hour took you on a journey through one of the most interesting and compelling tools in the online world, Google Maps. I realize at times I probably sounded like a cheerleader for Google Maps but the reality is that I've personally found it to be incredibly handy for all kinds of different things. Yes, I've used it for common mapping tasks such as helping with driving directions and finding landmarks when traveling, but I've also used it to gain a unique perspective on the world around me. Who would've thought a few years ago that the Web would make it possible to view up-to-date crime statistics on a map of where they occurred? Or what about tracking taxicabs live as they drive through major cities? These are the tip of the iceberg in terms of how an application such as Google Maps can improve our interactions with the world. And thanks to Google opening up its API to developers, you can be a part of it all.

This hour not only taught you how Google Maps works from a programming perspective but it also showed you how to take advantage of Google Maps to construct your own unique mapping applications. Granted, creating a Google Maps application requires a mixture of several web development disciplines such as JavaScript and XSLT. Even so, you found out how a solid understanding of XML can go a long way toward helping you roll out your own custom maps.