Last updated on January 6th, 2022 at 02:03 pm
If you’re looking to create a Google Map for your business, you’ve got a few options. Thankfully, it’s relatively simple to create a custom map that gets posted to your company website and used for internal meetings or other processes. Currently, there are three different options available for Google Maps.
Create a Custom Map Using Google
When creating a custom google map, start by logging into the Google My Maps page. You’ll need to sign in to your account to access the custom features section. You develop the map by adding markers manually or as a group. This method is cost-effective for businesses, although it does come with a few limitations.
Start by opening the Menu option on the top-left-hand corner, beside the search bar. Select the “Your Places” option on the menu. Locate the Maps tab on the top right and choose the create map option at the bottom.
When the maps load, you’ll want to select the marker icon to add a placeholder on the page. Locate a place on the map to add your marker and click it. Once clicked, a pop-up icon will appear on the page for a name, attributes, and description for the marker.
Continue adding the markers individually until you’ve added everything you need. Once you add all locations, customizing the map is possible. To rename the map, click “Location 1”. If you’d like to rename the layer on your map, click the three dots and enter the new name on the right-hand side. Customizing the appearance of your map is available under the “Base map” section, where you’ll find a variety of color and shading options. Finally, click the share button on the menu to post the image in other locations.
Mapping Software to Create Google Maps
Most mapping software uses cloud-based software incorporating Google Maps into the programming, giving extensive customization and functionality. Mapping software, like Maptive, brings a large variety of options to develop the perfect map for your business. These include geographic boundary and territory tools, multi-stop route planners, and heat map generators.
After logging into your account, click the new map button at the top corner. Most map customizers allow spreadsheet uploads, complete with Google sheet incorporation. Users can add markers manually or automatically upload them into their accounts, depending on their preference. Click the “Place a marker on the map” for manual uploads” button. Maneuver the mouse on the map and place the marker by selecting the location that fits. Once complete, customizing the map depends on your organization’s needs. Users can create customized markers and color schemes. Heat maps help businesses determine where key customer demographics are currently located while the geographic boundary tool breaks down your data into defined areas.
Additionally, users will be able to customize the maps for specific purposes. These features and benefits include automated route planning and distance calculators for internal planning. Whether you’re looking for an external map to draw customers into your company or internal maps to plan daily routes or functions, third-party software is a simplified option.
Using Google API for Custom Maps
The Google Maps Platform allows complete customization through API programming. Unfortunately, this method does require an extensive understanding of HTML, JavaScript, and other programming options. Additionally, it can be pretty complicated and rather time-consuming to incorporate. While there is Google Maps Javascript API, it’s not necessarily easy to navigate.
Choosing the Best Option for Creating Custom Maps
When choosing the best mapping option, consider the purpose, functionality, and overall features you’d like to incorporate. If you’re looking for simple and free mapping software, the Google Maps option may work well for your company. Using the API functionality may work well for your brand for those experienced in programming, JavaScript, and HTML. Looking into third-party mapping software may be the easiest option if you prefer more custom options and features. While these programs often come with fees, the overall business expense is worth the benefits, features, and functionality.
