How to Make a Web Mashup

A web mashup is when at least two Internet applications are used to create one new application called a "mashup." This new mashup uses features of each Internet application to create a new program that serves a unique function. Many businesses are now releasing web mashups, but it's a fairly straightforward process for an intermediate to experienced coder to take on for themselves.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Decide what the topic of your web mashup is going to be. Pick an application that you think would bring value to someone and that you would enjoy coding.

2. Gauge your skills to see if you are capable of making the type of mashup you want to see. Assess your programming skills and be honest with yourself about your capability to be able to code the mashup. If you know that your programming skills aren't good enough yet, then brush up on your programming skills using online tutorials or courses that will teach you what you need to know.

3. Determine from where you are going to get the data to create your mashup. For example, if you are going to create a mashup that shows a map of the United States and locations where pictures were taken in the U.S., you may wish to use data from an online photo site and online mapping site.

4. Sign up with the services from where you are going to get the data for your mashup and wait for the appropriate approval.

5. Select a tool to help you create a mashup. There are some mashup tools on the Internet so do a quick Internet search to see if there is a tool that will help you create the mashup you want.

6. Begin to code the mashup using tools or tutorials on the Internet to help you create the specific mashup.

Tips & Warnings

• Map mashups are the easiest type of mashup to create, but they also are the most common type of mashup.