I became fascinated with maps as a child collecting from National Geographic and elsewhere. When out and about using maps it helps that I have a fairly infallible sense of direction. I also know that many have a tough time with maps and directions and can’t tell where north is where they live, let alone someplace different.
As you may imagine I spent a lot of time with various map programs including GoogleMaps, BingMaps and OpenStreetMaps. They all have different and amazing features which take the concept of a paper map giving you a broad overview to new heights but not when you are walking down the street.
Having spent time with many tourism apps for Barcelona as part of the marketing research for this project, they all give you a street address and a GoogleMap pin and the subway stop. For many people, that is not enough. The detail presented in the app is designed to make sure you get there. I like wandering around when I know where I am as opposed to wandering around looking for where I want to be.
For those who may want to delve more into the subject, here are two articles about GPS and our relation to it and our world.
