How to Add Google Maps to a Web Site

Use APIs to add Google Maps to any website.

Google Maps is an interactive, robust mapping system. Google allows third-party websites to use Google Maps through various Google Map APIs (application programming interfaces). From static maps that show predetermined locations to more interactive features like driving directions, Google Maps can add substantial value to many websites.

Things You'll Need

• Google Map API key
• Web development software

Instructions

1. Sign up for a Google Map API key. The key is not required for all of the Google Map APIs, but is for most APIs that provide advanced mapping features. (See References for key requirements.)

2. Determine what Google Maps API is most appropriate for your website. Google offers many different APIs. The most basic of these shows a static map based on a URL. More advanced map APIs allow programming with JavaScript, Flash and XML.

3. Embed the appropriate API parameters in the Web page using the Web development software. The parameters include the API key information and location data. These parameters become more complex as the level of interactivity increases, and may required substantial programming skills. Google offers considerable documentation about coding and parameters for each version of the API on the API Family Web page.

4. Deploy and test the newly created Web pages on the live server, ensuring API and map functionality.

References

• Google: Static Maps API V2 Developer Guide
• Google: Sign Up for the Google Maps API
• Google: Google Maps API Family

Resources

• Google: Sign Up for the Google Maps API
• Google: Google Maps API Family