Google maps

Petnanny · #1 (**permalink**) 20-07-2008, 19:21

I have maps on my areas covered pages, and wondered if you can use the google maps for specific areas. The ones I use at the moment are free, but a bit naff, so do google charge for using theres?

dragonfly · #2 (**permalink**) 20-07-2008, 20:17

I think the offical answer is yes, depending on how they are used. You might be interested in taking a look at a page I've been playing with recently at

www.dragonfly-sameday-courier.co.uk\local.php?area=coventry

In theory you can change the area to any uk town, try it and see. Let me know if you find any towns that you think should be there and aren't or are in the wrong place etc. I've really only got a test list in at the moment.

IP2 · #3 (**permalink**) 20-07-2008, 20:37

Quote:

Originally Posted by dragonfly

www.dragonfly-sameday-courier.co.uk\local.php?area=coventry

Hey, pleased to see you went with the domain I suggested!

Sorry...back on topic...

yorkshiresource · #4 (**permalink**) 21-07-2008, 00:14

Google don't charge for using their maps as long as the website is free to access and the map isn't part of the product you are selling.

If you decide to go with Google maps, their "static maps" are easy to integrate into your site (as in the example in the previous post). The javascript/ajax maps aren't difficult - but if you are after a quick fix, the static maps only take a few minutes to sort out.

Petnanny · #5 (**permalink**) 22-07-2008, 07:44

Thanks guys. We don't actually sell anything other than our service, so would this be ok? also, where would I get the static maps?

Sorry I have taken so long to reply to these threads, but I have a darn trapped nerve in my back now (I'm falling to peices

), and its making sitting at the computer real difficult.

Mike · #6 (**permalink**) 22-07-2008, 08:23

yeah that would be fine.

You'll need to sign up for an API key
http://code.google.com/apis/maps/signup.html

then just have a browse through the docs and examples

or try one of the mashup sites like

http://www.mapbuilder.net/

dragonfly · #7 (**permalink**) 22-07-2008, 10:31

Quote:

Originally Posted by Petnanny

Thanks guys. We don't actually sell anything other than our service, so would this be ok? also, where would I get the static maps?

The urls for the images are fairly self explanatory for simple maps, have a look at the code for mine. You'll have to get yourself a key, but that's just a matter of asking for one.

If you need any help just ask.

PS Hope your back is better soon.