Many of these websites use Google Maps technology, interact with the Google Earth
desktop application, and disseminate citizen-contributed geographic information using
interactive web mapping applications. These technologies and applications now create
user expectations for fast performance and the ability to quickly and easily post information.
They are one example of the many approaches to Public Participation Geographic
Information Systems (PPGIS). They may equip millions of citizens with an online place to
upload geographic information, thereby increasing the availability of such information
worldwide (Goodchild 2007). However, as more web mapping applications are developed,
more attention must be given to their usability, user satisfaction, required tasks, data quality,
and applicability related to each purpose and audience they are being built to support.