Empirical Research

Google Maps: The 'Unseen' that Controls the Seen

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Abstract

Indeed, it is increasingly becoming impossible for man to abstain from technology at almost every moment. The reliance on a web mapping platform and consumer application, also known as Google Maps, is a clear indication of man’s nearly inseparable relationship with technology devices. The application provides satellite imagery, aerial photography, street maps, 360° interactive panoramic views of streets, real-time traffic conditions, and route planning for traveling by foot, car, bike, air, and public transportation. Aside from driving skills, navigation technology is now an application that most drivers or commuters must familiarize themselves with for easy navigation of familiar and unfamiliar terrain. Using qualitative research methodology, the study embarked on survey of respondents and found out that there is an increased reliance on technological innovation by most US motorists for them to easily navigate and possibly circumvent traffic-choked areas. The study shows that most drivers turn to mapping technology to keep them from getting lost or simply to avoid the busy route. It also finds out if the heavy reliance is truly hampering the navigating skills of the drivers and has other negative impacts on them.

 

Keywords: Keywords: Google Maps, the ‘unseen’, control, Decision, Motorists, Choice of route

How to Cite:

Ayinla, M. H., (2026) “Google Maps: The 'Unseen' that Controls the Seen”, The Journal of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering 41(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/jtmae.18021