I just checked out the Google Map Maker web application this morning. I was pretty impressed with the simple interface.
I've always admired the way Google can tackle a problem and design a slick solution. I don't know how I'd live without my G-Mail. Still, there terms of use really bites the big one. Seems to me like these terms would be a deal killer for a lot of volunteer mappers. (I sure won't be adding to there database. Why do that when you can contribute to Open Street Map?) It seems like Google is ignoring a principle that can be drawn from open source software development: absolute control chokes voluntary contributions. I do, however, think that mapping unknown regions of the world will only benefit society as a whole. If the data is publicly accessible, but Google makes a dime, is that a horrible thing? They might end up mapping something that would have never been mapped otherwise. Imagine what Google could have accomplished if it had worked with an organization like OSM to map unmapped regions of the world. It's too bad they were so short-sighted in this respect. The Sunburned Surveyor -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of SteveC Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2008 10:51 AM To: [email protected] Subject: [Geowanking] MapMaker What no mention of GMM on geowanking yet? And I was looking forward to the disucssion! http://www.opengeodata.org/?p=307 Best Steve _______________________________________________ Geowanking mailing list [email protected] http://lists.burri.to/mailman/listinfo/geowanking Warning: Information provided via electronic media is not guaranteed against defects including translation and transmission errors. If the reader is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this information in error, please notify the sender immediately. _______________________________________________ Geowanking mailing list [email protected] http://lists.burri.to/mailman/listinfo/geowanking
