Mapping and Geocoding
Currently I'm using Google Maps API to do mapping. And my own systems for geocoding.
The Google Maps API may in the future include advertizements. Their terms of service state that they'll give 90 days advance notice.
The leading open-source alternative (Mapserver) doesn't carry this risk, and also has the advantage of being able to handle a large number of markers/points without using as much memory/cpu, and doing a better job of handling polygons.
On the other hand, Mapserver doesn't have the base-line map data that Google has. Sure you can get cities and roads, but it isn't going to be nearly as comprehensive or pretty.
Old Mapserver/Mapscript map from 2004 of campusactivism.org groups
The Google Maps API may in the future include advertizements. Their terms of service state that they'll give 90 days advance notice.
The leading open-source alternative (Mapserver) doesn't carry this risk, and also has the advantage of being able to handle a large number of markers/points without using as much memory/cpu, and doing a better job of handling polygons.
On the other hand, Mapserver doesn't have the base-line map data that Google has. Sure you can get cities and roads, but it isn't going to be nearly as comprehensive or pretty.
Old Mapserver/Mapscript map from 2004 of campusactivism.org groups