501derful.org
Ok, I get it now. I’m just a bit slow on the uptake. When Google first came out with their satellite/hybrid map I thought “ok, that’s cool, but so what? Why do I need to see the tops of buildings?” Today it struck me. This hybrid function is exactly what I needed. Why? Because I have no sense of direction. I get lost… a lot. In fact, I don’t remember a time when I’ve been driving to a new location that I didn’t get lost. Unfortunately, I cannot afford a TomTom or other such navigational device, so I’m stuck with going off maps. Maps that didn’t give me a good grasp of my surroundings. Until now, that is.
With the google map in its hybrid mode I can see the street as each turn is made. I can see the buildings, trees, etc. surrounding each cross street so I know what to expect. I can also scope out where the parking lots are, or if street parking is my only option. The downside is that these satellite images are not recent, but I doubt they are old enough that it will make much of a difference most of the time. Unfortunately, I cannot print the image, but at least I can take a virtual drive before I have to touch foot to pedal.
I plan on using this feature not only for myself, but for anyone I have to give directions to. I’ll direct them to the Google search url and suggest they take a look at the hybrid mode so they can have a better sense of the area.
I wonder if the above is an example of the “infolust” that this month’s trendwatching brief is all about. I’ve not had a chance to thoroughly read the article, so I’ll let you decide for your self.
Trish,
Some of the pictures, including those of my street are more than four years old. So, if you’re driving down the street and see a huge retail center, and nothing like that shows up on your map, maybe you took a wrong turn and maybe the photo was outdated.
Rural areas can have even older photos.
Yeah, I know, but still, it helps me out. And, as I said, how often is that going to be a factor? It’s always something to be aware of however.