X marks the spot. What that spot is, though, is really up to you. X might be a much-needed trinket at Target, or perhaps the location of the closest coffee shop. With an explosion of new maps appearing from north, south, east and west, Xs are everywhere. We are officially in the age of mapmania.
Smartphones have given maps a second, digital life, and with that comes new opportunities for us to make the most of it. Instead of only showing us directions, maps can now be tailored to our personal interests. For instance, the New York Coffee Map, designed by and for java junkies, displays all the best caf√©s in the Big Apple. And Target’s updated mobile app shows the precise spot of each item in every Target store, whether that’s toothpaste or t-shirts. Brands have embraced maps because they know the importance of making their products as accessible as possible, and consumers have done likewise, recognizing the potential of maps to save them both time and money.
So how might your brand benefit from mapmania? Maybe your healthcare group can create a localized map showing all its medical offices in a community, or a separate one displaying just those that are open all night. Or your bank might offer a city map with the precise locations of all its ATMs, perhaps making special note of those that accept deposits.
Mapmania is one of those rare trends that stands to benefit both brand and consumer, making everything just a little more convenient for everyone. X is now easier to find. X is whatever we want it to be. Magellan would be jealous.
Examples of this Trend
New York Coffee Map: Craving coffee while making your way across Manhattan? Butterfruit Labs’ New York Coffee Map shows you what’s best, and what’s closest. The map replicates the NYC subway map, but replaces station names with those of nearby cafes. Getting caffeinated has never been so convenient.
Target Mobile App: Maps work in smaller scales, too. We’ve all had that helpless feeling of being lost in a big-box store. A new feature on Target’s updated mobile app looks to change that, offering a display showing the exact placement of every item in whatever Target location you happen to be in. Add products to your shopping list on the app and corresponding pins will pop up, revealing the smoothest route through the store.
Trends inspired by trendwatching.com/premium