Mastering Map Making: How to Edit Work in Google Maps

So, you’re looking to shape the digital landscape, to mold Google Maps into a more accurate reflection of the real world around you? Excellent! You’ve come to the right place. Here’s the lowdown on how to edit work in Google Maps, turning you from a passive user into an active cartographer:

The process of editing Google Maps boils down to contributing to the Google Maps community and leveraging the platform’s editing tools. You can do this through several avenues: adding a missing place, editing existing information (like names, addresses, hours, or contact details), suggesting road changes, reporting inaccurate information, and writing reviews and uploading photos. Each of these contributes to a more accurate and user-friendly map. You’ll need a Google account to make edits, and all submissions are subject to review by Google (and often other users) before they’re implemented.

Unveiling the Editing Toolkit

Google Maps offers various ways to contribute and edit. Let’s explore them in detail:

Adding a Missing Place

Is that fantastic new bakery missing from the map? You can put it on the map! Here’s how:

1. Open Google Maps: Launch the Google Maps app on your mobile device or visit the website on your computer.
2. Navigate to the Location: Find the approximate location where the missing place should be.
3. Long Press (Mobile) or Right-Click (Desktop): On your mobile device, long-press on the map at the desired location. On desktop, right-click.
4. Select “Add a Missing Place”: In the menu that appears, select “Add a missing place.”
5. Enter Information: Provide as much detail as possible, including the name of the place, category (e.g., bakery, restaurant, park), address, hours of operation, contact information (phone number, website), and any other relevant details.
6. Submit: Review your information and click “Send.”

Editing Existing Information

Found a business with the wrong hours? See an outdated address? Help fix it!

1. Search for the Place: Use the search bar to find the place you want to edit.
2. Open the Place’s Information Card: Click or tap on the place in the search results.
3. Suggest an Edit: Scroll down to the bottom of the information card and look for a button or link labeled “Suggest an edit.” The wording may vary slightly depending on the platform.
4. Choose the Edit Type: Select the type of edit you want to make (e.g., “Change name or other details,” “Mark as closed or permanently closed,” “Remove this place”).
5. Provide Correct Information: Enter the correct information for the field you’re editing.
6. Submit: Review your changes and click “Send.”

Suggesting Road Changes

Is a road missing, mislabeled, or incorrectly mapped? Here’s how to report it:

1. Open Google Maps: As always, start by launching Google Maps.
2. Access the Menu: Click on the three horizontal lines (hamburger menu) in the top left corner.
3. Send Feedback: Scroll down and select “Send feedback.”
4. Choose “Missing Road”: Select “Missing road.”
5. Pinpoint the Location: Use the map to pinpoint the location where the road is missing or needs correction.
6. Draw the Road (if missing): If the road is completely missing, you’ll be able to draw the road on the map. Provide details like the road name, direction of travel, and whether it’s one-way or two-way.
7. Describe the Issue: Provide a clear and concise description of the problem.
8. Submit: Review your changes and click “Send.”

Reporting Inaccurate Information

Spot an error that doesn’t fall into the above categories? Report it!

1. Find the Issue: Locate the inaccurate information on the map.
2. Send Feedback: Use the “Send feedback” option from the menu.
3. Choose the Appropriate Category: Select the category that best describes the issue (e.g., “Wrong address,” “Wrong opening hours,” “Wrong name”).
4. Provide Details: Explain the problem and provide the correct information.
5. Submit: Review your changes and click “Send.”

Contributing Through Reviews and Photos

While not direct edits, reviews and photos significantly enhance the Google Maps experience for everyone.

• Reviews: Share your experiences at businesses and locations. Be honest, detailed, and helpful.
• Photos: Upload photos of places to give others a visual representation. Ensure your photos are clear, well-lit, and relevant.

The Review Process

Remember, all edits are subject to review. Google uses a combination of algorithms and human reviewers to assess the accuracy and validity of submissions. This process can take time, so be patient. The more accurate and detailed your submission, the greater the chance it will be approved. You can track your contributions and their status in the “Your Contributions” section of the Google Maps app or website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the editing process in Google Maps:

1. How long does it take for my edits to be approved?

Approval times vary significantly. Some edits may be approved within a few minutes, while others can take days, weeks, or even months. It depends on the complexity of the edit, the volume of submissions, and the availability of reviewers.

2. Why was my edit rejected?

Edits can be rejected for several reasons, including:

• Inaccuracy: The information you provided was incorrect or unverified.
• Lack of Evidence: You didn’t provide sufficient evidence to support your edit (e.g., photos, website links).
• Duplicate Submission: Someone else already submitted the same edit.
• Policy Violation: Your edit violated Google Maps’ content policies.
• Spam: Your edit was deemed spam or promotional.

3. Can I edit the name of a landmark or historical site?

Yes, you can suggest edits to the names of landmarks and historical sites. However, these edits are often subject to more scrutiny and may require strong evidence to be approved.

4. How can I improve my chances of getting my edits approved?

Provide accurate and detailed information, include supporting evidence (photos, links), and adhere to Google Maps’ content policies. Also, be patient!

5. Can I undo an edit I made?

Unfortunately, there is no direct “undo” button for edits you’ve submitted. However, you can submit another edit to correct the mistake.

6. Is there a limit to how many edits I can make?

While there isn’t a hard limit, excessive or suspicious editing activity may trigger flags and require additional verification. Focus on making accurate and helpful contributions.

7. How do I report a place that no longer exists?

Use the “Suggest an edit” option and select “Mark as closed or permanently closed.” Provide a reason for your suggestion.

8. Can I edit information on Google Maps even if I’m not logged in?

No, you must be logged in with a Google account to make edits to Google Maps.

9. How do I become a “Local Guide” and what are the benefits?

You automatically become a Local Guide when you contribute to Google Maps (reviews, photos, edits, etc.). As you contribute, you earn points and level up. Higher levels unlock benefits like early access to new features, exclusive badges, and recognition within the Google Maps community.

10. Can I edit the shape or boundaries of a park or other geographical area?

Editing the boundaries of geographical areas is a more complex process and often requires specialized knowledge and tools. In many cases, these edits are handled by Google or other authoritative sources. You can still suggest changes, but they may be subject to extensive review.

11. What are the Google Maps content policies I should be aware of?

Familiarize yourself with Google’s content policies for Maps User Contributed Content. These policies prohibit things like spam, fake reviews, offensive content, and illegal activities.

12. Is there a way to appeal a rejected edit?

While there isn’t a formal appeal process, you can try submitting the edit again with more supporting evidence and a clear explanation of why your edit is accurate. You can also try contacting Google Maps support, although they may not be able to overturn the decision.

By understanding these tools and following these guidelines, you can play a vital role in making Google Maps a more accurate and useful resource for everyone. Happy mapping!