10 Apr 2008
MapQuest Still Rules!
The universal go-to website for driving directions, MapQuest has been challenged in recent years by the explosion of Google Maps and the unique information that Google began offering on their local business/map listing platform.
New MapQuest Features
However, MapQuest consistently tops the charts as the MOST visited website in the travel sector. In addition, it has quietly been updating its website to include some very nice new features such as:
- Advanced local search listings and information, in addition to directions
- Updates on the latest gas prices in your area
- MapQuest Navigator, a navigation system for your mobile phone (competing with Google Maps for Mobile)
More Local Business Searches
Recent Nielsen-WebVisible Data findings indicated that 86% of those interviewed generally use the Internet to find a local business. 78% use the Internet more frequently today than they did 2 years ago to find a local business. This further explains why local search has exploded in recent years. It is more crucial than ever to target your business location and harvest the local traffic that is being generated.
MapQuest is also taking advantage of its content network partnership with Google. They should appreciate the amount of traffic and the advertising dollar potential they are sitting on.
In addition to the improvements they have made, they are doing a good job not getting sued like Google maps!
Are you promoting your business locally?
The price of gas feature is especially sweet. With oil trading at $110 per barrel I have no doubt summer travelers will be using this feature to save some cash.
Comment by Vikram — 10 Apr 2008 @ 3:59 PM