Yes. Because Google Maps is like a basic necessity these days. And if you improve something that you use everyday, you’re helping yourself.
I started using Google Maps as an alternative to physical maps or atlas, initially to plan trips. Now, I use Google Maps almost everyday, whenever I step-out of home. Because I look before I leave.
Being a perfectionist, I always wanted everything to be accurate and correct. Because of which, I always have issues with Google Maps. As the ever-changing world can never be 100% accurate and perfect on Google Maps, I always wished to use maps with trust.
Around 4-years ago, even before I knew what a LG Program was, I tapped on a notification sent to my mobile, and provided a review to some place I visited the previous day or so. Later that day, I received a mail, and the subject line caught my attention - “There’s a new local guide in town”. I opened the mail to find out that it was me!
I was curious, interested and surprised to know about this, because I didn’t knew such program exist. And do you remember what I previously said, I wanted maps to be perfect and accurate. And I realized that, it was my chance to make a change I’ve been waiting for.
I used to spend hours straight, editing places, correcting names and markers that were not-accurate. Though a slight mismatch between satellite and map view troubled me, I used them combined to make sure the places are accurate so that maps take people to the desired location.
My initial intention of improving maps was, “if many other people like me keep improving maps, one day, we can have a perfect product.” Later, when I discovered more about the program, and came to know the scale of the global community and the cause all of us were supporting, I felt very accomplished. Because, all these days, I’ve been part of a community which is much bigger than I though, and have been contributing to a cause which is far better than what I though I was contributing to.
Attending events like Live Connect 2019 Hyderabad, helped me in understanding the cause and community, in a better way. With a lot of beautiful memories to cherish, and a lot of learning that I can apply to a improve a global service, this program is highly recommended for any individual who is interested in improving themselves and to to contribute a global cause.
From individuals to international organizations, from daily needs like food and grocery deliveries, to travel and tourism industry, to healthcare applications and national security, Google Maps is almost omnipresent.
Being a part of something of this big, means a lot more than being just a volunteer for a global community program.