68 Classifieds Blog

Features

Google Maps Module

Posted on October 17, 2008 by Eric Barnes

A lot of classified sites are now adding mapping systems where people can actually see where an item is located. This can be beneficial depending on the type of site you are running. For example it would be great for real estate sites, garage sales, or yard sales. That way a site visitor can quickly see how far away something is and get directions.

Even though it can be so useful actually integrating a map is not an easy process. Just take a look at some of the documentation for Google Maps API. You pretty much need to be a programmer to implement it.

If you are using 68 Classifieds then we have a simple method for integrating it. No programming skills needed. :) lhotch has created an advanced Google Map Module that will plug right into your site.

This module allows you to create links to Google maps, display maps inline with ads or both. Admins can set the map up to pull the address for the map from the registration field OR extra fields they create (one of the other for the whole site) as well as allow each individual ad poster to enable or disable the map for their ad.

Screen Shots

Below is a screenshot of a typical ad with the map module integrated. Keep in mind it can be moved and put anywhere on the viewlisting page you want.

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Comments

Bob - MyToko Classifieds
October 19th, 2008 at 1:34 pm

Indeed a great feature. I am wondering if users need to insert a street name or can just put a balloon somewhere on the map. Because Google maps doesn’t have all South African street names in its database, the first is impossible for my site.

Eric Barnes
October 19th, 2008 at 1:38 pm

Hi Bob.

Very good question. I would imagine you would need to talk to lhotch about that one. I am not sure if he set up the module to allow the user to actually make the selection themselves.

Although it does appear it can use the extra field system so you may be able to create for the longitude and latitude.

lori
October 17th, 2009 at 1:26 pm

hi eric, just thinking of going with 68C engine and want some custom module and design features. Anyway with regard to google map module, can you change the icon that appears as the location indicator on the map? i would like to use something identifiable with my brand image. thanks

Eric Barnes
November 12th, 2009 at 10:41 am

Hi,

I would recommend checking at http://classifiedmods.com/

I believe a google map mod is available.

Comments