GPS Applications & Mapping
The GPS (Global Positioning System) is a "constellation" of 24 well-spaced satellites that orbit the Earth and make it possible for people with ground receivers to pinpoint their geographic location. The location accuracy is anywhere from 100 to 10 meters for most equipment..and within one (1) meter with special military-approved equipment. GPS equipment now has become sufficiently low-cost so that it is a very affordable tool for business -- such as real-time tracking of trucks, analyzing the efficiency of service/delivery routes or gathering or capturing precise locational data. Many businesses are using GPS tracking and logistics systems to enhance their efficiencies, improve operations and cut expenses.
GPS receivers also are being incorporated into many consumer products, such as cars and cell phones.
Examples of GPS hardware vendors:
On-Line Mapping Tools
Businesses are finding a wide variety of new uses for this GPS technology and mapping data:
Google maps - http://maps.google.com/ and http://earth.google.com/
Articles:
Microsoft article - 4 tips for using mapping tools to increase sales
Where Google's Maps Will Take Us
Business 2.0, August 5, 2005 (click to read)
