Maps APIs are one of the most common forms of integration for many business websites, particularly those with brick-and-mortar stores. However, even if you operate an eCommerce website and don’t meet customers at a physical location, you can still benefit from integrating a maps API into your website. Read on for an overview. Google and Bing Maps API The two major eCommerce API integration needs for maps are Bing Maps API and Google Maps API. Both APIs contain powerful functionalities, and there is no clear “winner;” either one will be beneficial to integrate into your website. Both platforms are free, as long as you don’t exceed a certain traffic limit. There’s also a large amount of developer support for each platform, which is generally a good sign. Google Maps API exceeds Bing Maps with regards to open-source development, which means there are more creative uses of the Google Maps API from which to draw. Creative Uses of Maps API Integration For example, you might provide a map of locations you ship to or a list of services you provide to different regions. You could even create a map of products people buy in different geographical locations, to help your customers find what they need most, depending on where they live. Maps APIs are used for some of the most creative purposes of any API, given how many things you can show on a map interface. Virtually any data that can be displayed on a map can also be integrated with a Maps API. For example, there are maps devoted to hurricane zones, literacy rates, taxi cab fares, apartments and rental homes, correlations (between population and political affiliation, for example), and much, much more. If you enjoy data, a Maps API is a great tool for your website. How to Tailor Maps API Integration to Your Business You can think creatively about how a Maps API fits into your own eCommerce business plan, too. For example, you might provide a map of locations you ship to or a list of services you provide to different regions. You could even create a map of products people buy in different geographical locations, to help your customers find what they need most, depending on where they live. The possibilities are exciting. contact a Clarity representative today to discuss your options. Find out more about Clarity VenturesSee our Enterprise Web Portfolio