COM 125- Web Applications

The web application I chose to review is Google Maps. You can find the site at maps.google.com. Here you can find directions to anywhere you want to go and not have to pay a dime. You have the choice of viewing maps in a map, satellite or terrain format. Users can also view traffic for available cities. Users can also choose to use street view. This allows users to get a 360 degree view of a specific location. This feature is only available for certain cities at this time. The design of the site is pretty basic, and nothing special. There are links to other parts of Google. No advertisements of any kind. It allows you to print, send or create a link to this page. The only social aspect of this site that I could think of is that it allows you to email directions or maps to other people. Also, you can create personalized maps to share with friends and family.

 

To get directions using Google Maps, you enter the address of the destination in the box at the top. When your destination comes up, you must then enter your starting point in the bubble above your destination. When this is done, your directions will be located on the left and on the map, any construction, road closing or accident will be indicated by their respective icons. They also give you an option to search the area of your destination. When I searched my home address, under the “explore the area” link there was a picture of my high school. Also, when I search my address, in a bubble over the point on the map there was a picture of my house and if I clicked on it, it would allow me to see the street view.

 

I think that this site is useful, because it allows people to see the whole world without leaving their house. With street view you can view someone’s house or a landmark or anything else that is available. No other application will let you enter an address and have a 360 degree view of that house. People no longer have to learn how to read maps, and there is no hassle. All you need is a computer and when you want to go somewhere and don’t know how to get there, all have to do is enter your destination and starting point and print the directions out and you’re ready to go. This web application shows how technology is making everything faster and easier.