One of the longest-standing challenges for Google Maps has been incorporating multiple locations within the same map. As a business, relying on data to make informed decisions can make all the difference throughout your day. Unfortunately, when it comes to adding multiple addresses is limited; currently, users can only upload details for ten locations simultaneously. On top of that, the locations uploaded into the system won’t automatically optimize, leaving users scrambling to determine the best routes to take throughout the day.
Users have two choices when they’d like to plot points on a map: manually input the addresses and attempt to optimize the route or use third-party software. While these limitations might be acceptable for personal use (after all, you’re likely not planning to visit hundreds of locations throughout the day), they can be limiting as a business navigation system.
Plotting Locations on Google Maps
To add places on the Google Map application, log into your account on the computer. From there, you’ll want to open or create a map. Click on the “Directions” tab and add a starting point on your screen. The directions functionality will allow a physical address, name of business, or longitude or latitude components.
Add the destination in the search bar below once you’ve entered the initial starting point. If you’re only entering a single location, click on the route function to get started. If you’re adding additional locations, click the Add button below the original destination you’ve added. Repeat this process until you’ve reached the maximum allotted sites. Click on a route to get the directions.
Creating a Map with Multiple Points
Starting at the main page, sign in to your Google account. From there, you’ll want to select the Your Places, Maps function and choose the Create Map option to edit it. A new window will open, allowing you to add a title and a description for the map. Hit the save button once you’re finished. From there, you’ll be able to enter the pinpoint into the map manually. You can also add locations using the search bar at the top of the map.
If you’re entering locations into the map manually, you’ll be able to name the place and save it to add it to the map. A green marker will appear if you try to add the locations using the search functionality. Once you’ve added all the places, save the map and refresh the page to see an updated page.
Using Mapping Software to Create a Google Map
While the Google Map functionality allows for individual points to be added to the map, using a third-party map ping software will enable users to update multiple locations simultaneously. You’ll want to input your sites on a spreadsheet to get started. Spreadsheet integration is the easiest way to import various locations at the same time.
To get started, create a spreadsheet with two columns. In the first column, add the physical address you want to upload. In the second column, include any descriptions or categories to the account. The more columns you have in the spreadsheet for grouping and filtering, the easier it will be to organize the points later.
Upload the Addresses into Your Mapping Software
Getting your addresses into the mapping software depends on the program you’re using. Some software allows direct uploading into the map. If your program offers this functionality, log into your account and create a new map. Give the map a name, and then choose the data you’d like to upload. Hit the Upload File button and select your spreadsheet.
If the program you’re using doesn’t allow for direct upload, copy the cells with your data. Log into your software and select the new map functionality. Where it asks for the locations, hit the add manually button and paste directly to the software.
Once your points are uploaded into the software, you’ll be able to generate a map or customize the route options depending on your needs.
