It’s been a busy year for Google Maps. A few months ago the venerable mapping service received an overhaul that included new advertising options, while in October Google Maps gained the ability to show nearby events.

In a move that signals Google’s intent to make money off Maps, the Maps Engine Pro update helps SMEs create custom maps that can promote their brand and assist customers in discovering their services.

Location, location

The update works by allowing businesses to create a map of their location that is loaded with more than just geographical data.

Google Maps are generally made up of data layers that includes location, Street View, images etc.  Using Maps Engine Pro, SMEs can add business data and see it visualised in a spreadsheet format. 

This might include customer and office locations, optimal shipping routes and so on.

Compass correction

The example Google used was Pure Fix Cycles, a bicycle supplier based in California. After uploading their customer locations, Pure Fix was able to efficiently direct customer queries to their nearest store that had inventory. 

The same data could be used to help businesses expanding into new territories. 

Finders keepers

Google Maps currently has over 1 billion active users and 1 million active sites. That’s a lot of untapped potential.

If Maps Engine Pro acts like the press release suggests, it may go some ways to helping brands tap into this vast database.

To find out more visit google.com. 

If you enjoyed this article then subscribe FREE to the twice weekly SMK Digital Bulletin, click here now or visit www.smk.net.au/subscribe.

Also, click here download a FREE Social Media Policy Research Paper – worth $495. This FREE in-depth 17 page paper features insights from both communications and legal experts at the likes of: National Australia Bank (NAB), Edelman, Corrs Chambers Westgarth, Social@Ogilvy, SMK – Social Media Knowledge, The Victorian Electoral Commission. Or visit www.smk.net.au/downloads for details.