Enhancing Google Maps: User-Driven Suggestions for Improved Navigation Features
Google Maps is undoubtedly one of the most widely used mapping services on the internet. While it provides accurate roads and directions, there are several features that users would like to see added to enhance the overall user experience. This article highlights the specific requests from the user regarding improvements he would like to see in Google Maps, including integrating features from Waze, improving the mapping of building entrances, predicting traffic density, and allowing turn-by-turn directions with detour information.
Integrating Waze into Google Maps
One of the most interesting suggestions comes from a user who mentioned that Google acquired Waze some years ago. He believed that the integration of Waze into Google Maps would provide a better overall user experience. Google maps, even though more accurate, still lack the features that Waze offers. The ability to notify users of speed limits and road terrains would greatly enhance the navigation experience. Currently, Google Navigation, which is still in beta, can get you from one place to another but it still lacks the ability to notify of speed limits and road terrains.
Improving Building Entrance Mapping
The user also mentioned that when querying for driving directions to a large building complex, the entrance is often not accurately mapped. Google Maps usually shows the entrance to the nearest road, which is not always correct. His suggestion is for Google to map the exact entrance of buildings or areas to improve the accuracy of the directions. This feature would significantly enhance the user experience, especially when navigating around large or complex buildings.
Predicting Traffic Density
An additional feature that could greatly enhance the navigation experience is the ability to predict traffic density for a specific destination and time based on previous data. When the user queries for driving directions to a location that is 2 hours away, Google maps calculates time based on current traffic density, which is often incorrect. His suggestion is for Google maps to predict traffic density based on historical data, thereby providing more accurate travel times.
User-Friendly Lat/Lon Coordinates
Another feature that could enhance the user experience is the display of latitude and longitude coordinates in a more user-friendly format. While this feature is currently available, it may require additional steps. The user's suggestion is for Google to make this information easily accessible in a more user-friendly format.
Allowing Turn-By-Turn Directions with Detour Information
The user also suggests that it would be helpful if Google could indicate whether certain turns, exits, or U-turns are allowed at specific points on the map. Often, the map shows a direct route to the destination, but detours may be necessary due to certain turns or exits not being allowed. This could significantly improve the reliability of the navigation system.
These suggestions, provided by a user, highlight the areas where Google Maps can be further improved to meet the expectations of its vast user base. Google would benefit greatly from incorporating these suggestions in their ongoing improvements. If you have additional suggestions or feedback, feel free to share them with the Google Maps team.