Is there any value in MapQuest?

[ReunionMarketing]

Hi Moz Community!

Is it worth keeping business information up to date on the MapQuest platform? It seems that MapQuest popularity is rapidly declining, but there aren't many articles or statistics on it's current user base, nor integrations. Is it still relevant?

Would love to hear thoughts on this topic!

[imdadp]

@MiriamEllis said in Is there any value in MapQuest?:

Yes, your sense that MapQuest has decreased in importance is correct. They were a very early mapping product and enjoyed some years as an early adopter. I believe MQ is still pulling data from Infogroup, but basically, they handed over the keys to Yext and their help documentation is all about using Yext instead of using MapQuest. Kind of sad, honestly. There was a time before Google Maps was the be-all-end-all in mapping.

Your observation about MapQuest's diminishing importance is accurate. As an early mapping product, it had its heyday during the initial years of mapping technology. It seems MapQuest is still relying on data from Infogroup, but there's been a notable shift as they've essentially passed control to Yext. Their help documentation now emphasizes using Yext over MapQuest. It's somewhat lamentable, considering there was a period when MapQuest held a significant role before Google Maps became the dominant force in mapping services.

[imdadp]

@MiriamEllis said in Is there any value in MapQuest?:

Yes, your sense that MapQuest has decreased in importance is correct. They were a very early mapping product and enjoyed some years as an early adopter. I believe MQ is still pulling data from Infogroup, but basically, they handed over the keys to Yext and their help documentation is all about using Yext instead of using MapQuest. Kind of sad, honestly. There was a time before Google Maps was the be-all-end-all in mapping.

Your observation about MapQuest's decreased importance is accurate. MapQuest was indeed an early player in the mapping industry and enjoyed prominence before the widespread adoption of Google Maps. However, in recent years, MapQuest's relevance has diminished.

It appears that MapQuest has transitioned its services, including data sourcing, to Yext. Yext is a company that specializes in location data management and online brand presence. The fact that MapQuest's help documentation now directs users to Yext signifies a shift in focus.

The evolution of mapping technology has seen Google Maps become the dominant player, offering comprehensive features and a user-friendly interface. This shift has impacted other mapping services, including MapQuest. While it may evoke a sense of nostalgia for those who remember its early prominence, the dynamics of the mapping industry have changed significantly over time.

[imdadp]

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, MapQuest is still in operation, but its popularity has declined compared to other mapping services like Google Maps. The value of MapQuest depends on specific use cases and user preferences. Some users may find value in its features, while others may prefer alternative mapping services. For the most current assessment, you should check recent reviews and updates about MapQuest.

[MiriamEllis]

Enjoyed that WP article, EGOL. I'd be pleased to see MQ make a comeback, but it would take an ingenious idea on their part.

[EGOL]

MapQuest was the kickass leader in online mapping in the 1990s.  They took first place right out of the gate.  Then, AOL made a deal to purchase MapQuest for a Billion Dollars in 1999.  It was one of the first billion dollar website deals.

Their SEO performance has been up and down, with good optimization being taken down and crappy put back in its place.  They have done that a couple of times.

Interesting articles (in addition to a good summary on Wikipedia...

https://www.ecommercetimes.com/story/2068.html

https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/does-mapquest-still-exist-as-a-matter-of-fact-it-does/2015/05/22/995d2532-fa5d-11e4-a13c-193b1241d51a_story.html

[MiriamEllis]

Hi there!

Yes, your sense that MapQuest has decreased in importance is correct. They were a very early mapping product and enjoyed some years as an early adopter. I believe MQ is still pulling data from Infogroup, but basically, they handed over the keys to Yext and their help documentation is all about using Yext instead of using MapQuest. Kind of sad, honestly. There was a time before Google Maps was the be-all-end-all in mapping.