Thursday, November 13. 2008

Google Maps Flu Trends

Google is using their search technology to spot trends in possible flu outbreaks. Based on the location from which searches are performed on the word "flu" for "flu shot," Google.org has created a map of the level of possible flu activity. I'm assuming they are geolocating by IP address. The page on "How does this work" does not specifically say how it is compiled other than by millions of aggregated searches. Google has done this for allergy season and has compared their trends with that offered by the CDC.

Kansas Geological Survey Online Maps Challenge Private Industry

The Kansas Geological Survey upgraded its online map technology recently. (You may have seen the press release.)

John Morrison, owner of Wichita-based Red Top Weekly News Service, which provides updates on the oil and gas industry in Kansas is a "competitor." It too offers online maps. While others have explored, then dropped lawsuits since the data is public and the Survey is obliged to make it easily available, Morrison just sees his subscriber rates going down.

Still, Morrison has a value add (just like Tele Atlas and NAVTEQ do):

He said he does call operators to confirm information but that's what makes his service "a little more complete and accurate" than what the KGS's interactive map provides.