What is a map worth?

BeckyStrause

Google seems to be setting the standard in map worth. They have decided to limit the usage of their Maps API to 25,000 map loads per day per API, or 2,500 map loads per day that have been modified using the Styled Maps feature. And they’ve begun charging for usage beyond that. That charge could be $4, $8, or $10 per additional 1,000 loads. This extra revenue is sure to benefit Google, but will this new policy backfire?

It seems as though Google’s decision has unwittingly increased the popularity of OpenStreetMap (OSM), which approaches mapping similar to sites like Wikipedia where users contribute data.  Both Apple and foursquare have decided there are better options for them.  While Apple is using OpenStreetMap at least for data outside the US, foursquare is actually using a company called MapBox (which gets it’s data from OSM). With these big companies leaving Google Maps behind, one has to wonder what other companies will jump ship?

Charging for a service once done for free might seem like a good idea, until people find a way to do the same thing for free.

January 20, 2026
Modern construction and manufacturing sites are no longer just about heavy machinery; they’re digital ecosystems. Tablets, laptops, IoT sensors, and mobile apps are now essential for everything from blueprint access to production monitoring. These tools enable real-time collaboration, safety compliance, and operational efficiency. But when your workforce is spread across remote job sites or large facilities, keeping these systems connected and secure becomes a challenge. Construction Blueprint & Plan Access: Crews use tablets to view updated plans on-site, reducing errors and rework. Safety & Compliance Reporting: Mobile apps allow instant incident reporting and safety checks. Equipment Tracking: IoT sensors monitor heavy machinery usage and maintenance needs. Manufacturing Production Line Monitoring: Tablets and IoT devices track throughput and detect anomalies. Quality Control: Mobile devices capture and share inspection data in real time. Inventory Management: Connected devices streamline material tracking and reduce downtime. These tools keep projects moving, but only if they’re secure, updated, and accessible anywhere. Why Remote Access Is Critical Construction sites and manufacturing plants often operate in remote or rugged environments. Workers need secure, reliable access to company systems, whether they’re in the field, on the shop floor, or traveling between sites. Without proper management, connectivity issues and security gaps can lead to delays, data breaches, and compliance failures. How a Managed IT Services Partner Helps You Win Partnering with a Managed IT Services provider lik e Eberly Systems ensures: Centralized Device Management: Configure, update, and secure all devices remotely using Microsoft Intune. Enterprise-Grade Security: Microsoft Defender protects against threats across IT and OT environments. Identity & Access Control: Microsoft Entra ID enables MFA and conditional access for subcontractors and BYOD scenarios. 24/7 Monitoring & Support: Proactive threat detection and performance monitoring keep operations running smoothly. Scalable Solutions: Whether you have 50 devices or 500, policies and updates roll out automatically. This means your teams can access critical tools and data securely anytime, anywhere, without worrying about downtime or cyber risks. Construction and manufacturing thrive on precision and speed. Technology makes that possible, but only when it’s managed effectively. A trusted Managed IT Services partner doesn’t just keep devices secure, it keeps your business moving, your workforce connected, and your data protected. Ready to empower your teams and safeguard your operations? Contact Eberly Systems today for a free consultation.
By Guest Blogger December 9, 2025
Why Device Management Is Critical
November 4, 2025
Why Cybersecurity Hygiene Matters for SMBs
October 28, 2025
Why Leading with AI Matters for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
October 10, 2025
Fake CAPTCHA Sites Hijack Clipboard to Install Malware
October 10, 2025
Understanding Business Email Compromise (BEC)
By Kordel Eberly August 17, 2025
Welcome to the Cyber Cold War
fish hook
By Eberly Systems September 20, 2024
We're all in the same boat trying to avoid cybercrime! Here's our top ways to identify a potential phishing attempt.
By Eberly Systems September 10, 2024
Focus on integrating with new team members and new customers