Monday, May 21, 2007

The Mini-Map

I posted a new build last night that has our new mini-map system.

For every item listed (that has a location) we show a map that has three tabs. The first is a basic map that only shows the item in question, the second shows related items based on tag and the third is all nearby items.

TR minimap

This is the first feature I've added in a while that helps users find new information. The thinking here is that someone will Google a location and using this control will maybe find something better - or perhaps something to do before and after.

I've decided to stop using the basic "zoom" controls provided by Google Maps. You will notice that when you click on tabs it will change your current zoom level. I am going to attempt to make this control intelligent so that you don't need to zoom in and out to see all the related items.

I've been thinking that perhaps I should drop the "Tab" system and just have checkboxes that toggle the related and nearby items - what do you think?

Deveopment Blog kickoff

It's about time I started blogging the micro-changes being made to TownRenowned. We've been "live" since November 2006 and the site is now starting to get some traction in the marketplace.

I will be making some big changes in the next few weeks as well as our designer will improve our template - so keep an eye here to see what's new!