We are living in a age where most information is readily accessible on the palm of hand. Google has huge share in connecting these dots for us. While Google gives you literally everything you need on the internet and most of it for free, the maps is something I call the rescuer.
As part of my job, I get to travel a lot. After having Google maps with me I realized that never have I ever felt confident or secure enough while travelling. Whatever I needed, it was there. And the accuracy of instructions was mind blowing. It specially came in handy in difficult times. Like finding a quick route to a hospital, finding businesses in odd hours and so on.
Alas, when I went back to my hometown Aurangabad a couple of years ago, I figured that a lot of information is not correct. This being a historical place is a tourist attraction. The inaccuracy of information on maps was definitely an issue for international travelers. That was when a friend of mine introduced me to the Google’s initiative of “Local Guides”. Ever since then I have developed a habit of checking map for accuracy and ensuring that critical places are mapped accurately with correct information listed.
I do this during the weekend or whenever I am roaming in the city. I try to ensure that the map location of the place is correct, the address is accurate and other information such as contact details, available facilities/resources, working hours etc are mentioned correctly. Finding this information is very easy. The max we have to do is invest a few minutes and ask around. This does allow me to widen my social circle and make new contacts.
All in all, never have I ever came across a tool that gives me information, allows me to provide information, connects me with people and let me connect people with others and is a platform for me to help others.
Chaitany