The Problem
Recognizing a void in the ability to easily find high-quality maps and geographic images, GeoNova Publishing contracted with Mindgrub to design and develop a very unique way in which to search their database of maps and images for use in advertising, print publications and websites. GeoNova had a fantastic idea regarding what was needed in a website to provide stock maps images, but needed a team experienced in producing rich internet applications to design and develop this unique framework. Mindgrub was brought on board to do just that; we created everything from the information architecture, design comps, band-end functionality and a custom tool for storing, sorting and purchasing digital images.
The Solution
First, Mindgrub customized the open source interactive mapping solution, OpenLayers, to save costs, allowing us full access to return latitude and longitude coordinates from the map, and search for maps and images within that specific area. The GeoSearch tool gives people the convenience of narrowing down their searches by utilizing various filters in any combination including keywords, established categories and interactive geographic maps.
Second, we built a searching functionality that is as robust as GoogleMini and more interactive than any other searching engine for stock images. Users have the ability to continue refining their search by adding or removing filters so they can find their images easily and efficiently. Once a user has an image or images, they can save them to their account for later use or to purchase. They can create any number of different collections of images and move items in and out of each collection. From there they can add images to their cart where they choose the format and rights pricing criteria before downloading their digital assets. Stockmaps is a very interactive and easy to use place on the web for anyone looking for high-quality professional images of maps and geographic content.
The Results
Our concept offers end-users a solution to wasting time and money creating original work by providing users with an easily searchable database of high-resolution, professional maps for use by creative professionals. The website has been gaining more and more traction since its launch and has been featured on several websites as a new, cutting-edge online experience.
About OpenLayers
Mindgrub Technologies co-owns the rights to the customized OpenLayers portion of the GeoSearch tool used on the StockMaps site, which will eventually be integrated into viaPlace and other projects that Mindgrub develops.
