Comparison of Google maps API and openlayers for WebGIS development

Abstract

Many free, open source, web based, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are shown to be an efficient and inexpensive way to disseminate feature rich and theme orientated map presentations. With web 2.0 technologies to creatively craft web user interfaces coupled with a strong versatile spatial processing backend, the end result of these freeware products are just as compelling to use in predefined use cases as any marketed brands. Putting aside the spatial analytical functionality, the tools to render maps and information ultimately determines the success of any GIS products. There are several free rendering software libraries for developers of WebGIS systems to choose from and the most popularly implemented are Google Maps API and OpenLayers. Both are JavaScript technologies that work seamlessly within the web browsers and can display layers of information at the users` discretion. But which technology should one use? For this report, we will compare and discuss the limitations and usability of these two technologies, and try to identify their usable domains.