When you need driving directions, you probably turn to MapQuest maps, Google, Yahoo or Ask City maps. With all the recent innovations and copy-cat schemes going on, it is easy to assume, at first glance, that “all these sites are essentially the same thing.” However, there are subtle differences in accuracy, functionality, reliability and quality that you should consider before embarking on your next trip.
Google Maps is known for its precise accuracy and unmatched satellite maps. You can create your own customized maps, avoid construction or traffic delays, look up gas prices and gain reliable information precisely targeted to your business search terms. Over the years, Google’s online maps have added the ability to add up to 10 stops along your route and get address and phone number information just by hovering over the location on the map or typing an address in. You can also see photographs of landmarks, user reviews and Wikipedia pages about places around town, which is extremely cool. So far Google is the only site that offers options for drivers, walkers, bikers and public transit riders. The downside to Google is that the drag-and-drop mapping is still a little awkward to use if you are not used to it and you could find yourself longing for just simple point A to point B driving directions like MapQuest maps offer.
MapQuest driving directions were at the forefront of the mapping community since the dawn of online maps. They were the first site to offer multiple stops without creating a new search and the ability to email a road map link. They too offer business locations and traffic reports. If you notice a problem with some of the directions, there is a Data Error Report form you can fill out to improve the site’s accuracy. Comparatively, one of the best things about MapQuest is the simplicity and functionality. Although the downside to this site is that you cannot do all the fancy drag-and-drop maneuvers (if you consider that a downside at all), there are no satellite maps, you may have a hard time planning alternate detour routes and the language used for explaining slight turns or freeway ramps can be a little confusing.
Ask City is another noteworthy site for driving directions, although it is often overshadowed by Live Earth, Google and Yahoo. The “places of interest” are easily pinpointed on the site, which include everything from local movie theaters and museums to local events and businesses. You will be able to view multi-point directions all on the same page just like the other sites. However, the social networking capacity has not been fully developed on Ask City and navigating your way to posting a review can be more trouble than it is worth. There is also no way of stopping mid-search without closing the window, which can be annoying. You may also think the maps are not as pretty on Ask City, compared to a Google map. Perhaps the best way to find your optimal site is simply to test drive all of the sites, spending a little time surfing around each one and see which feels most comfortable.
