What is a Web Map? How is it Used?

As maps have become more digital, understanding and managing space has become even easier. Today, millions of people interact with location information through web maps. Whether you're searching for a restaurant or analyzing your customer base, web maps are now not only a tool for navigation but also for data visualization, analysis, and strategy development.

Contents

What is a Web Map?

Differences Between Web Maps and Traditional Maps

Advantages of Web Maps

Popular Web Map Platforms

Areas of Use of Web Maps

What is a Web Map?

Web maps are digital maps accessible via an internet connection and interactive with the user. They can be updated in real time and support functions such as zooming, layer control, and location marking. They also allow for live location tracking through GPS or GNSS integration. They are interactive maps that are easily accessible from computers, tablets, and mobile devices.

Differences Between Web Maps and Traditional Maps

Web Maps	Traditional Maps
Instantly Updated	Constant, periodic updates
Interactive	Not Interactive
Location Tracking Available	No Location Tracking
Dynamic	Static
On the Internet	Physical or digital copy

Advantages of Web Maps

• Always up to date: Roadworks and new businesses can be added instantly

• Customizable: You can mark your favorite places and draw custom routes

• Multi-device support : Desktop, mobile, tablet compatibility

• Extra features: Traffic conditions, street view, weather data, route suggestions

Popular Web Map Platforms

Cartographero Web Maps

• Custom Designed themed maps

• High resolution satellite imagery

• URL: www.cartographero.com

Google Maps

• Street view

• Corporate information and user comments

• Offline use support

• URL: maps.google.com

OpenStreetMap (OSM)

• Open source, community-driven

• It has a structure that anyone can edit

• API support for developers

• URL: www.openstreetmap.org

Yandex Maps

• Detailed map infrastructure for Türkiye and Russia

• Public transport and traffic integration

• URL: yandex.com.tr/map

Areas of Use of Web Maps

• Navigation: Planning pedestrian, vehicle and public transport routes

• Real Estate: Location-based search, regional analysis

• Tourism: Creation of travel routes, exploration of historical sites

• Business: Potential customer mapping, market area determination

• Emergency management: Mapping disaster areas, resource allocation

Using Web Maps on Mobile Devices

Thanks to mobile apps, web maps can be used anytime, anywhere. Some of the most popular apps include:

• Google Maps: Compatible with iOS and Android, offline maps can be downloaded

• MAPS.ME: OSM-based map application that can be used completely offline

• Yandex Navigation: Ideal for monitoring heavy traffic in Turkey

Mobile usage tips

• Download maps before traveling

• Check location history

• Avoid distractions while driving with voice guidance

The Future of Web Maps

• Augmented Reality (AR): Route reading while scanning the environment with the camera

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Personalized route suggestions based on habits

• 5G Support: Ultra-fast updating of instant traffic, accident and route data

• Participatory Cartography: Systems where citizens directly contribute data

Web maps have moved beyond being merely a navigation tool to become an integral digital component of daily life. At Cartographero, we offer custom, layered, and data-driven web mapping solutions for businesses . Interactive, accessible, and intelligent platforms for the future of mapping are now at everyone's fingertips.