RBI #2: Public Transport Directions on Google/Yahoo Maps

Here is Random Business Idea #2

I realize we're living in a driving nation - with crude oil breaking $70/barrel, perhaps we should pause to rethink?  It doesn't help that we have one of the worst public transportation system amongst all developed nations.  But I digress...  Let's focus on more manageable topics. 

As a first step, how about including public transportation options on digital maps?  Being a New Yorker, knowing how to get from Soho to UWS by car is really of little use - I don't own a car, and even if I do, I won't attempt the impossible.  How about a simple subway/bus map overlay?  Or better yet, interactive directions for transport within and beyond major cities - I suspect I'm not the only one who'd find this service tremendously useful.  More so than satellite maps. 

Update: My friend, Ingrid, made a great suggestion in comments.  Thought it's worthy of a quote:

"On a related note, these driving directions are perhaps more relevant when you're on the road - I can attest to the pressing need recently when returning from Vermont. A last minute change of plan led to 'uncharted territory', and an idea dawned one me: Wouldn't it be a great service for Verizon to set up some public internet booths at highway sevice areas or rural gas stations? That is, as public utilities, not unlike the ubiquitous public/pay phones. The utilitarian dimension of the internet remains to be tapped."

I absolutely agree!

Image Credit: http://www.railway-technology.com/projects/new_york/new_york1.html

Comments

[Annette]

Ingrid: your internet- roadside-map-kiosk idea is great! I'd post an update...

[Ingrid]

Ditto, as they say, great minds think alike. :)

I for one have been frustrated by the "driving direction" Yahoo! gives everytime when I check out a new place in the city. Have to resort to another website, subway finder, for orientation.

Besides, the 'arms race' to put satellite maps, some years old, online is beyond me.

On a related note, these driving directions are perhaps more relevant when you're on the road - I can attest to the pressing need recently when returning from Vermont. A last minute change of plan led to 'uncharted territory', and an idea dawned one me: Wouldn't it be a great service for Verizon to set up some public internet booths at highway sevice areas or rural gas stations? That is, as public utilities, not unlike the ubiquitous public/pay phones. The utilitarian dimension of the internet remains to be tapped.

A footnote: In Switzerland, as recent as a few years ago, there were SwissCom terminals at train platforms for both voice and email access - swipe your credit card and off you go. In contrast, in the "Anglo" world, email access is more of a private nature with gadgets like Blackberry, etc. Different God, different mountaintops, perhaps?!