Using Google Latitude

On February 4, 2009, Google introduced a new location tracking application called Latitude. Latitude enables location tracking through the use of GPS enabled phones or triangulation of cell phone towers. The information is displayed on a Google Map. 

As with many GPS devices, there is a trade off between utility and privacy. Although Google's motto is 'don't be evil' many do not trust it to  keep that motto. Google has an enormous and robust capability in a number of different ways, this is just one of them. Like many applications, this software has very strong potential use for good. 

Registration

Currently, Google Latitude will work on mobile devices if your mobile device is operated on the Google Andriod platform, Apple I-phone, or a Windows -based smart phone. Basically, you have to have a smart phone if you want the capability to look at a map on your phone. Alternatively, Latitude will allow one to track a position on a laptop or on a 'non-smart' cell phone because Latitude can also track locations based on triangulation of cell-phone towers. 

Latitude can be loaded to your igoogle page if working from a computer or downloaded straight to your mobile phone at google.com/latitude. You have to enable the software for it to work, and your friends have to enable tracking in order for Latitude to display a position other than your own. Like many GPS applications, it's not without a few quirks. Accuracy can be off a few hundred feet.

Applications

Missing Persons

I can already think of a few times when I've been on the phone at work with a 'dumber than blonde' student who had gotten in the car with someone the night before  and had now had no  idea where she'd been left. Having the capability to ask for a phone number and get a pinpoint  location on a map would have saved everyone a whole lot of trouble. Of course, this only works with a live victim who has a cellphone. Those are two big caveats. 

Fleet/fieldworker tracking

Google Latitute does have the potential to serve as a valid (though bare bones)  fleet tracking mechanism.Other fleet tracking applications generally offer fuel consumption and speed statistics in addition to tracking, but if all you need is positioning software, than Latitude will likely do. 

A Parent's Peace of Mind

Not sure where your daughter is spending time tonight? Track her on Latitude. Just enable the software and add the necessary phone number. 

Emergency Operations

Latitude is new, so the use of the application in emergency management is likely not extensive or fully trusted. I'll be scanning the media for news stories about Latitude's use in emergencies. Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and other forms of social media have been used in previous emergencies. This may be another tool in the emergency manager's toolbox.