Making Google Maps More Inclusive

Keywords: google maps, inclusion, accessible, motorbikes, nigeria, asia, design, transit, technology
Session Type: Virtual Paper
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 4/9/2021 11:10 AM (Pacific Time (US & Canada)) - 4/9/2021 12:25 PM (Pacific Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 17

Abstract

How do you make the world’s most powerful mapping application more inclusive and accessible? When Google Maps was first built in 2005, it was tailored for an American audience who drove cars. But how does this translate to more diverse, global contexts? This paper examines a five-year process of what it’s been like working as a Design Lead for Google Maps, collaborating with a global team to shape the map and the process to become more inclusive and accessible. From adding navigation capability for motorbikes to mapping out transit systems in Lagos, Nigeria, this presentation will share stories and lessons about the power of confronting our own biases and privileges and uniting with local communities and organizations to build more inclusive maps.