Along with the standard display of fire hydrants, StreetWise has an option to allow up to four custom map layers that can be created from your own GIS data. These can be turned on and off by the user and can represent things like jurisdictional boundaries, station boundaries, local address layers or even a locally created street layer. However, keep in mind that turn-by-turn navigation will still use Google Maps for Android and Apple Maps for iOS.
There were several critical issues that led to StreetWise choosing Google Maps are our primary tactical map background. First, it was important to us that the maps be seamless across jurisdictions. Having heard many stories of other mobile response products “dropping off” at the edge of a jurisdiction, leaving responders with no map when responding on mutual aid calls, we wanted to be sure our users could seamlessly move from one jurisdiction to the next, even across the state, and still have maps. Second, we needed a solution that would work for everyone, including smaller jurisdictions that have no dedicated GIS department. Last, but not least, was maintaining an affordable product, and the cost of map licensing was a big factor in that.
It’s important to note that Google Maps is used by more than a billion people every day and more than 5 million active apps and websites use Google Maps Platform core products every week. Knowing what we do about the platform, it’s hard to imagine any organization more dedicated to geospatial accuracy. Google has invested billions into both automated and manual systems to improve and maintain accuracy. In addition, they actively encourage partnerships with authoritative organizations, such as governments and utilities, to allow for contributions of timely new data. If your local government is not participating, they can and they should.
Here are some helpful links to learn more about Google Maps, the various ways their data is obtained, and how local entities can contribute to accuracy:
Beyond the Map: How we build the maps that power your apps and business
Beyond the Map: Solving problems and powering location-based services with imagery
Beyond the Map: 9 things to know about Google’s maps data