Wikipedia defines a mashup as a web application that combines data from more than one source into a single integrated tool; an example is the use of cartographic data from Google Maps to add location information to real-estate data, thereby creating a new and distinct web service that was not originally provided by either source.

There seems to be a misconception about what a Google Maps mashup is versus mapping a location on Google Maps. A mashup is seamlessly integrated into your web site by pulling your data from a database and placing it on a Google Map. It mixes your content with a base technology such as Google Maps, Google Earth, or MapQuest. Wheras a “show on Google Maps” link (such as “map this location” seen on Craigslist displays one or two locations on a map. The link leaves your site or opens Google Maps.

There are endless possibilities for Google mashups, especially for professionals who promote and plan built environment projects.  For instance, your portfolio of projects or condos for sale in a neighborhood, city, or region can be featured as a map based gallery. Pushpins for each location with images and details can be featured on your web site.

I first realized the unlimited capabilities of linking information to a simple map when the first mashup was created here in Chicago. A programmer took the Chicago police department’s crime reports and mapped them to Google maps on-the-fly. The map is automatically updated when recent crime information becomes publicly available.

There are several ways to get a mashup on your site. Find a company that specializes in the development of custom mashups. Or find a product that has already been developed to add to your site. Or hire a programmer to develop one for you from scratch. It can be expensive and time consuming to develop your own mashup tool because you have to develop the software first before you can start adding your content to it.

PlaceVision developed Neighborhood Maps, a Google maps mashup tool, for urban planning and historic preservation use. I envisioned turning a firm’s projects into a map based portfolio, or for community organizations, to map historic properties and key places of interest.  I integrated it with Image Gallery to link images from the map to a larger view with more detailed information.

While our mashup tools are not the only products available, we are committed to using these tools for community building and raising awareness of economic or preservation opportunities. I don’t see a lot of web companies specializing in these fields or excited about being a pioneer in industries that are very slow to adopt or change the way they work.

My hope is that urban planners can learn how easy it is to communicate and collaborate with the right tools to create more livable communities. 

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