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Why Walkscore.com not sued by Google?

by KubiK
6 replies
I am trying to understand the potential legal issues when using publicly available information from major sites.

If a site like walkscore uses Google map information and then does its own algorithm, and provides better information to end users, plus giving credits to Google. Will it avoid ALL possible legal nightmares? Or do they still need to get some written consent from Google or paying a fee to Google? Any ideas?
#google #sued #walkscorecom
  • Profile picture of the author igorGriffiths
    A good example of the correct approach would be that of JVZoo and Paypal, they spent a long time explaining to Paypal their business model and why they could be trusted to never breach the FTC rules which Paypal are very nervous about when it comes to make money online offers. What this means for you is that if you intend to use a service in a novel way then speak to the rights holders and get them on board, this will ensure you have thought through and formulated a presentable plan before taking your idea too far.
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    • Profile picture of the author KubiK
      By "onboard", does it mean they will take considerable amount of profit to be gained? Also, how to protect one's innovative idea if they can deny your idea and use/tweak it to make it their own after you present to them?
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  • Profile picture of the author mojojuju
    I think Walkscore.com is complying with the terms of the Google Maps API, aren't they?
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    :)

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  • Profile picture of the author Farish
    Originally Posted by KubiK View Post

    I am trying to understand the potential legal issues when using publicly available information from major sites.

    If a site like walkscore uses Google map information and then does its own algorithm, and provides better information to end users, plus giving credits to Google. Will it avoid ALL possible legal nightmares? Or do they still need to get some written consent from Google or paying a fee to Google? Any ideas?
    Google allows a certain amount of api calls/requests for free(25000 per day). After that they require you to pay or turn off your api access.
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  • Profile picture of the author KirkMcD
    Originally Posted by KubiK View Post

    If a site like walkscore uses Google map information and then does its own algorithm, and provides better information to end users, plus giving credits to Google.
    Google encourages the use of the Maps API.
    Here are many examples:
    Google Maps API - More Than A Map
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  • Profile picture of the author Brains Gone Wild
    That is the nature and intention of an API - they want developers to use it. API's help the original provider expand their reach and also allow developers to further improve products/services. As long as the developers play by the rules, everyone wins.
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