Interactive Mapping API’s MDIT - Center for Shared Solutions

Why do you need mapping? I need to tell people where we are. I need to give people directions to a conference or meeting. I need to have an interactive map and show other services in the area. I need to display geographic data or characteristics. I just need to see a map.

How can maps help Maps are a visual representation of geographic areas. Maps show roads for traveling Maps can have data linked to them Maps can show geographic features like rivers, streams, trails Maps can be interactive.

How are maps delivered Maps can be printed on paper or be in a book Maps can be drawn electronically to illustrate a detour or provide directions Maps can be generated on the fly by online mapping services like Google and Mapquest

How to use maps Distribution of paper maps is great for the motorist. MDOT sends out free transportation maps every year on request. Interactive online maps are really great to find start to end directions or to view an overview of specific geographic area.

Major Map API’s Google Maps Virtual Earth Map Quest Yahoo Maps

How the API’s work JavaScript Add a reference to the API in the HTML document via script tags The actual client script block has a very small foot print of only a few lines of code Used to create the interface and client interactions Sends requests to mapping server and processes the responses Can be disabled by the client which can cause mapping to fail or not function

Terms of Use “Read them” and ensure that your intended use is not in violation with the licensing Check for Government use exceptions Look for limitations on the number of transactions Make sure that you can meet the rules for the API’s branding

API Restrictions for Governement Virtual Earth (Microsoft) Must enter into a separate MWS/VE agreement Map Quest, Yahoo Maps, Google Maps No explicit statement prohibiting government use but suggest requesting written confirmation Each of these sites reserved the right to charge fees and show advertising

Center for Shared Solutions Custom Mapping Applications.Net, Java, JavaScript Spatial Data Development, warehousing, analysis, conversion

CSS Map API Thoughts Evaluated Google Maps and Virtual Earth Both are comparable for content an capability but there are differences Google Maps wasn’t always free There are also limitations on geocodes (15,000) and requirements to notify if transactions will exceed 500,000 in a day Virtual Earth (Microsoft) enterprise license All local jurisdictions would be able to use it

Mapping in the CMA Choose one API for mapping This will provide users with the same map experience wherever they go in the CMA Make sure this API adheres to the policies of Michigan.gov Use the API developer site to build the map scripting for your specific task CSS could help provide support with complex JavaScript or map data integration from the Spatial Warehouse

Samples and Tools Convert addresses to coordinates GeoCoder Tool CSS Services Examples of using Google Maps in the CMA eMichigan Samples

Thank You John S Clark