Author(s)

Alan G. Phipps

Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology, University of Windsor, Windsor, Canada.

A question about the analytical capability of Google maps is answered for three examples of pin maps, and polyline and polygon maps that are computer-programmed with the third version of the Google maps application. One map reads XML data stored on the home server, whereas another downloads its data from an online fusion table, and the third includes pre-programmed data. Each map permits users to query mashup layers after the map has loaded. However, an analytical capability comparable to GIS should require users to have access to their data for analysis with their own functions while the map is loading. The technical constraint of asynchronous loading of data for Google maps is illustrated for each map. In conclusion, only one map has an analytical capability that is achieved by means of deprecated synchronous loading of data.

V.3 Google Maps, Pin Maps, Polygon Maps, XML Data, Fusion Table, Asynchronous Loading

Phipps, A. (2014) Three Applications of V.3 Google Maps: Just for Display of Data, or Analysis as Well?. Journal of Geographic Information System, 6, 548-558. doi: 10.4236/jgis.2014.65045.