Sunday, October 15, 2006

Google Maps and UK politics

I'm a big fan of Google Maps (gm), it's a nice looking, easy to use map system. What sets it apart however is the open nature of the software. Google have allowed developers to create all kinds of applications using maps as a building block.

Such application mash ups have a real use in politics. I'll show some examples of how gm's are currently being used and can be use in the future. I'll show third party sites that are mainly from the US but I also have a few of my own. Including:

1 - maps showing your local councillor
2 - maps that not only show your councillor but also allow you to click to call them (initially via Skype)
3 - finally maps can be used for party matters and electioneering, so I'll produce an interactive map that allows Labour Party members to plot local events onto a map.

The above is very literally the tip of a large iceberg and I'd be interested if you find any other examples of maps being used in politics or the wider community, please let me know.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

Hi Simon,

Would be very interested in using/hosting/helping with this kind of thing, and I guess we have just the kind of databases to power these kind of services, including a shared Google Calendar.

Simon said...

That would be great, not sure the best way to contact you. I'll send you a message via your contact us on bloggers4labour. thanks - Simon