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Mapping apps for local businesses

Using Map Apps to Help Local Businesses Get Found

From the initial research phase to getting directions to the business’ location, consumers are increasingly taking advantage of mapping apps. As a leading provider of GPS business listing services, over the years we’ve seen firsthand the rise in proximity-based searches. And with big brands dominating most general searches, local map searches are a primary area where agencies can deliver massive value to their clients. If you don’t have a GPS data distribution system in place, here’s what you need to know.

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Why Map Apps Matter for Local Businesses

In their simplest form, map apps chart the locations of points of interest around the world. But as products like Google Maps and Apple Maps have continued to develop, today they offer searchers so much more.

Business listings naturally include a name, address and phone number (NAP), but they might also include customer reviews, a description, questions and answers, photos and attributes. And with as many as 46% of Google searches having local intent, this offers a valuable sales tool for local businesses.

What Map Apps and In-Dash Navigation Solutions Matter More Than Ever?

Last year, you may remember we suggested five mapping apps and navigation solutions you can’t ignore. Of course, the ever-popular Google Maps was present, along with Apple Maps and Waze. However, we have consistently advocated for a broader syndication approach that targets a host of GPS devices and in-dash navigation systems, as well as those emerging technologies such as self-driving cars.

The ability to get found wherever people are searching is one of the most straightforward ways to reach targeted consumers. According to Google, 88% of people who conduct a local search via smartphone end up visiting the store within one week. Now consider the same outcome for a person using Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Ford, Mazda and other in-dash navigation solutions.

More often than not, consumers using mapping apps are deep into the buying cycle, so a carefully crafted GPS directory listing can be enough to secure a new customer. With minimal effort, your local business clients can get real-world results from a broad-reaching mapping app strategy.

How to Get Listed on Mapping Apps

If you’ve been following Advice Local for a while you already know we are committed to distributing business listings far and wide – while also eradicating bad data. But why does this matter? Well, to succeed long-term your local clients must be discoverable on both the obvious platforms like Google Maps, and the smaller services that are just emerging. You cannot ignore these. It’s crucial that they receive accurate, consistent data to satisfy the needs of consumers.

Our Data Amplifier Network meets both demands by distributing consistent business data to a vast network of platforms – mapping apps, GPS POI databases, devices like Garmin and TomTom, wearables, in-dash navigation and more.

Getting Found on Map Apps

Last but not least, the data you provide to each platform matters. Take advantage of the chance to offer keyword-rich descriptions, opening hours, high-quality images – and any other option the mapping app allows. Our listing management services provide opportunities for optimization, and this can truly make all the difference in visibility. When allied with customer reviews and search proximity, optimized listings have the best chance of being discovered by targeted consumers in the area.

Best Mapping Apps and GPS Data Distribution Services

For local businesses to get found on mapping apps, in-dash navigation and other GPS platforms they need a data distribution service they can trust. Advice Local works with local marketers and agencies in syndicating data to the critical platforms. To find out more, request a demo or call (214) 310-1356 today.