New Interactive Map

Everyone here has seen Google Maps, correct? Well, I've got an idea.
The current map is:Outdated Really slow to load How do we fix this? Simple. I think I've figured out how to modify Google Maps to run on a custom server with custom images. Then, all that would need to be done is set up a PHP script to return the images or just modify the way the script requests the images and shove them in folders (easier).

While I have finals next week and must therefore study this week, I should be able to get a proof-of-concept server running this within a week or two of finals ending. What do you all think? Also, if I can pull this off, would it be possible to host it here?

Also, if this belongs in Sardelac Sanitarium, I apologize. I wasn't quite sure where to put it.

Google Maps uses AJAX.

I don't know a single developer that knows AJAX.

Firstly, I intend to make this, so you don't need to worry about finding a developer.
Secondly, this wouldn't have the full functionality of GMaps in it's first incarnation. It would start off using just the map part. Then I might add search for such things as towns and NPCs and bosses. The last part would be directions, and I doubt I'll be able to figure that part out. The rest should be relatively simple, though.

My main questions are:
1) Does anyone else think this is a good idea?
2) When I make this, will you be willing to host it?

1. Great idea
2. Talk to THX

I like the idea, i'd also be willing to host it if it was really good.

What does Google think?

I started work today (or maybe yesterday, but I can't remember anymore) and I thought I'd give you all an update.

I've got a working version of the script that outputs tiles (like Google's tiles). For some reason, though, it seems to be taking half a second to output anything. I'm not sure if this is because of my server or because of the script. If it's the fault of the script, I have a backup plan that takes more disk space (and costs me a bunch of time to prepare) but requires less actual server-side computation, but I'll figure that out once I've got everything done, I think.
Next to do is modify the actual Google Map code to use my server and whatnot. I'll get this done ASAP, but that might not be until next weekend.

I'll try to keep you guys updated.

sounds like an awesome plan and i really look forward to checking out what you've done.

takes about 2 seconds per connection to a diff url

I am almost done. I've got all the hard stuff out of the way. Now all I have to do is modify the interface a little bit and I'm done.
I think. One minor problem might change that.

any preview

Sure. I suppose I should have posted one at first.
Silly me.

Color me impressed.

Look forward to it

I'm just wondering, how exactly did you get the Google Maps code in the first place so you can modify it? I looked on the Google Maps web site and I didn't find anything about how to actually download the source code for it. Or am I completely misunderstanding what you're doing?

google = good idea

If Google Maps uses AJAX meaning its client side code and not server side so it can be copied just like the HTML here
but thats nice, very nice

Quote: TEST SERVER URL IS NOT FOR YOU Anyhoo thats pretty funny. Great idea but the picture is really blurry, or is it just me.

Quote: Originally Posted by MCS Anyhoo thats pretty funny. Great idea but the picture is really blurry, or is it just me. That's not just you. As it turns out, I made an error in my code. I've fixed it since I made that image and it looks better now. Unfortunately, Google updated their code and broke what I had, so I need to redo it. That shouldn't take too long, but I've got a bunch of stuff I have to do for my job and such now, so I might not be able to get it done until next weekend.

[EDIT]
Quote: Originally Posted by Alex319