Wiki for Maps

Map-wikis are an excellent way of generating digital map content for countries/regions that don't have digital maps. In addition, it is a cost-effective way of keeping the map-data updated, for a fraction of the cost that companies spend.Contrast this to a fairly new addition to the long list of Google Services - the Google Map Maker. Sitting in the luxury of your house you can add/modify map content. It has a simple-clean interface. This content is almost instantly added and used by the Google Maps. This service will be very valuable to countries that lack digital maps, e.g. countries in Africa, Asia and even India.



I am interested in learning more about how they will customize Google Maps/Transit for differences in countries/cultures. E.g. Indian addresses are very different from ones in US and Europe. Having "opposite ABC Hospital" is very common. Or including "auto rickshaws" in Google Transit :)

While different groups try to make it easier to add/update map-data in different ways, I continue to work on my university project on building a wiki for routes & campus activities (RouteKi) for Columbus/OSU Campus area. Start of a new quarter. Let's get started!

Technological fix for Terrorism

In response to the recent terrorist attacks in N.Delhi.

I sincerely hope that the Government is able to break this network (Indian Mudjhahideen and other terrorist threats) and bring justice. I hope this happens before the population of India gets used to them and starts treating the attacks like road accidents, with indifference. In addition, I hope the victims of the Gujarat riots get their due justice.

It is frustrating to wait for the Government and the judicial system to do everything. Is there anything that folks like us can do? Can we have a technological fix for terrorism and give voice to everyone?

• For example, people in technology could pursue research like this
• I read earlier about some city in New Zealand was using a wiki to make local laws. How did that work out? In this video Mike Gravel talks to Google about similar initiatives. Is that how our society will evolve into and give a voice to everyone?
• Is anyone at IIT working on fixing the problem of terrorism? Not even going crazy - a mix of GPS devices, special cameras/sensors on satellites to check border infiltration.

Of course, when basics like checking ‘illegal’ planes in the airspace, are not in place, it is difficult to expect much.

I am interested in finding more about solutions. If you have more info give me a buzz.