BUZZ NEWS

Google Maps Favorite Places: Share Them!

Posted on July 28, 2009
Aïcha Charpentier

Even if smart search engines (such as Hunch) are gradually making their way onto the Web, it seems that Google is still the undisputed king of the search engines. By buying up YouTube and releasing the new Web browser for Windows, Google Chrome, Google is showing that they are able to develop and reinvent themselves constantly. Today, it is Google Maps offering Internet users to discover sites recommended by experts.

Google has called on experts in all fields, which include gastronomy, art, sports, entertainment and shopping. Gastronomy expert Alice Waters, professional skater Tony Hawk, art expert Iwona, and many others share their opinions about places, cities, and their favorite locations on Google Maps.

Users themselves also have the option of posting comments to share their own opinion. In this way Google does not need to enhance its information, as the users create the content themselves. The brand is relying on the knowledge and ideas of their community, a technique called crowdsourcing.

The goal is not to merely settle for discussion about a product or place, but to communicate a pleasant experience. For example, if you are debating on whether to go the Maldives or Australia for your next vacation, you can navigate this way and find the information you want.

Google’s objective is to appeal to professionals. Having established that 80% of American Internet users search for a restaurant or a boutique online, it is crucial that concerned parties increase their online visibility and shed light on their business.

The operation has only just started, and this campaign should get a lot of attention. It would not be in the least surprising, that from now on, for every new business opening, joining Google Maps becomes automatic.