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Pitfalls, Potential and Consequences of Neogeography:

Neogeography has transitioned the map making process from cartographers to the general public. In the past, software like ArcGIS was inaccessible to the general public, and required a greater intellectual and academic understanding to use. Now, Google Maps has released an API (Applications Programming Interface) available to the general public, which is relatively easy to use. Thus, the typical map maker is now someone with little to no geographic knowledge and schooling. Consequently, the accuracy and reliability of these maps are always in question. For instance, its now very common to use Google Maps to catalog a summer vacation. One can add pictures and locations that were visited. These locations however are unverified and can often be inaccurate. If someone decides to replicate a summer vacation and follows a map Mashup, they may find themselves in the middle of nowhere. This major pitfall forces viewers to call into question any information presented in map Mashups.

Moreover, by making the API of Google Maps and other tool sets readily available and usable to the general public, a greater volume of information about trips and map locations can be shared. Unfortunately, this innovation also bring with it a greater volume of inaccurate information. The greatest aspect of Neogeography is the fact it makes map making fun. Cartography can be seen as a very dry, esoteric practice. Now, people can create maps about anything and share them with their immediate friends. Thus, map making has the potential to become an expected follow-up to any trip. This information sharing can transform the way vacations are planned. With so many maps, pictures and videos linked together, viewers can sift through different sites and make the most educated future plans.

Furthermore, the impacts of Neogeography are yet to be seen. Certainly, as more and more users become acquainted with the API of Google Maps, the consequences will be realized. The introduction of Neogeography will not eliminate the need for GIS trained professionals, since their work carries credibility and accuracy. A future challenge will be to evaluate and discern trusted Mashup makers.