Advanced Sitecore Google Maps (WCAG Edition) is a new module for Sitecore. The module provides maps, that are accessible and meet the Section 508 requirements. The module is very easy to use for your Sitecore editors.
Google Maps from Google is a great tool, that you can make to your tool with this module. Users are familiar with Google Maps, from many other sites. They know how to zoom in and out and switch between various map types. There is a possibility to show the geodesic maps, terrain maps, satellite maps and combinations.
It is becoming increasingly more important that websites are accessible. The Advanced Sitecore Google Maps module expands Google Maps features to also be accessible and meet the requirements of WCAG 2.0 level AA and Section 508. This module is the only map solution for Sitecore, that meets the WCAG 2.0 Level AA.
The module provides multiple ways of viewing a Google Map, including several filters and accessibility lists. As a developer, you can develop your own views:
Google Maps view including 3-level filter and accessibility list
The module is configured from Sitecore using custom Sitecore editors directly on the item that show the map. You can enter an address, or move the map marker to find the map center:
Create a map in Sitecore
When creating a map you have full control over the zoom control, the map types to include (including moon, mars and sky views) and how the map should be displayed. You can even add the overview map and the Google search box to your map.
Markers, polygons and polylines are called “overlays”. These overlays can be grouped, and these groups can be used to filter overlays from the map, or to inherit marker icons. All overlays contain titles, text, alternative text and address information that can be used when presenting the overlay.
Markers are created similar to creating a map, by entering an address or moving a marker to the designated position.
Creating a marker in Sitecore
Polygons and polylines are created in a similar fashion, simply by clicking on the map untill the polygon or polyline is drawn. The polygon and polyline colors, line thickness and transparency are fully controllable:
Adding a polygon to the overlays collection
In order to use Google Maps, you need to register your URL at Google. If your website has many URL’s, you need to register each of them, including sub-domains (www.mysite.com and mysite.com for example). The module contains a key manager where you add all of your Google Maps keys, and the module automatically finds the correct key:
Multiple Google Maps key management
Click here to read more about the module, or Click here to see a demo of the module.
