While writing about the launch of BIGMaps Facebook application, I began thinking about how the integration between maps and other content can be improved: I use maps extensively, particularly when travelling when I'm in a city that I'm not familiar with. Maps are becoming more and more social, so far, the integration of Latitude into Google Maps being the best that I've come across. BIGMaps will probably integrate Whrrl into its interface. I have a few ideas on how to increase usage of maps online, make them more fun, or just promote collection of data: -- Integration of events: networks like Facebook are increasingly being used to send out invites for events, and the integration of events will help encourage usage of maps. Events can be both private and public, and maps companies can then also list events in specific cities. Partnerships can also be forged with a company like Buzzintown for the same, or Yahoo Maps can integrate Upcoming. This will help when I'm planning a vacation: for example, when I was going to Koh Samui in Thailand, I missed the Full Moon Party by just a day. I may have altered my plans, had I known. Additionally, if I'm a fan of Iron Maiden, and I want to know details of their concert schedule, maps would help. Post event, an integration of photos from Flickr or Picasa would also provide interesting context. -- Travel Destinations: Another layer I'd love to see is a list of travel destinations in proximity to…
