The website analysis shows that Map24 UK operates similar to many other web based map services by allowing for searches focusing on the address or specific routes. The difference is that the Map24 website utilizes Java Scripts. The user is immediately notified that Java is required to view the maps and a download option is provided.

Although the home page of Map24 UK loads exceptionally fast, which is often not the case with mapping sites, the maps take a while to load, but the up-side to it, is that the maps offer a high level of functionality, often lacking with online maps. One drawback through is that the immediate zoom is too much and with little context provided it makes orientation difficult.

The website analysis of the Map24 website however, revealed a few excellent features such as the ability to obtain more information about an area when the cursor hovers at the specific spot. Users also have the option of route measuring not done automatically, but by calculating it through specific steps.

The ability to zoom in and out at online maps is important for ease of use. The Map24 website allows this for easier orientation. The website makes use of pop-up windows to inform the user and as such it is important that you allow pop-ups to use for instance, the locator. Registered users can save settings and specific addresses.

A simple search conducted as part of the website analysis of the Map24 website indicated a fairly simple and uncluttered map, but at certain spots on the map there seemed to be some overlapping or overrunning of annotations. One of the benefits though is the ability to identify hotels and filling stations on the map.

Another feature that ensures easier orientation is the splitting of maps. One large world map is divided into continents, regions, and countries. To switch between continents is as easy as clicking on a particular continent and selecting the specific country from the easy to use drop-drown menu.

When it comes to locating the driving directions from one point to another the Map24 website functions much the same as other online mapping sites, but with the added advantage of having a choice between the quickest or shortest selections. Users can also expand their requirements by indicating whether they want to know if there are banks etc. in the area. Users can plan almost exactly how long it will take them to reach their destination by including the estimated speed.

The Map24 website includes an array of functions that other online map sites lack. If you are willing to spend some time at the Help section and get to know all the functions, it will soon become an indispensable tool for daily or weekly trips and definitely for business and vacation trips.

Although the website design has kept simplicity in mind, navigation through the maps can be a bit frustrating at first. Fortunately a help function is available. The website design however, has not focused on easy usage for different browsers and screen resolutions as a large open white space appears on the home page when first opened. Another drawback is that the text links are sometimes exceptionally small although the rest of the website utilizes standard web font sizes. It would also have been useful if audio instructions were included or directions that could be downloaded for an iPod or mp3 player. Many people follow directions easier when they hear the instructions while driving. This feature may have been missed, but if available it is not obvious.

The Map24 website has not received a prestigious Web User Magazine Gold Award for best online maps for nothing. In general the user will appreciate the comprehensiveness of information, good quality of maps and directions. Additional features on the Map24 website such as the ability to book hotels increase its usability.

Users will also appreciate the newsletter and the ability to save information once registered. It is not however, a website that will provide quick directions or maps from the start as users need to get used to the way searches are processed.

The website analysis also revealed that the general guidelines for good website design have been followed. The copyright notice, and terms and conditions statements are present. Accessibility features such as language choice also enhance the functionality of the website. The contact option is comprehensive and easy to use. No dead links or orphaned pages are present. There is a logical flow of information and Internet marketing through branding is done as the logo is clearly displayed and brand colors used throughout. The titles are descriptive. Images contain ALT tags. Although a site map is not obvious, the main menu which displays at the top is not complicated and self-explanatory. User feedback is obtained through a pop-up survey window.

In terms of search engine optimisation (SEO) as an essential part of Internet marketing the Map24 UK website analysis shows that the website does well. The Metatag with a complete description and relevant keywords is present. The Map24 website has a high Google Page Rank of 7. The thousands of incoming links, Metatag, keyword density, domain name, and listing at important directories can all contribute to its high standing at Google. Need more than a GPS? Then visit the Map24 website and start exploring the options available.