Will Google Earth Replace the need for costly GIS software and license fees?

This was a recent topic of discussion on the Google BBS... no doubt you've also been wondering... why invest deeply in a pricey IMS, GIS site license and support costs etc... "Lets take a look how much ArcGIS software we would need on one desktop to replicate the functionality of Google Earth. First you would need ArcView for $1,500, then add a license of 3D Analyst for $2,500. So now we are at $4,000 dollars just for software and don’t forget to add the yearly $1,300 dollar maintenance fee also. Now you need to pay for ArcWeb services so that you have data (which there aren’t even prices on website). Add in ArcIMS and ArcSDE servers and your talking the GNP of some third world countries." The small guy can definitley accomplish some amazing feats using open API's from Google and no doubt the internal discussions at ESRI and other agencies are likely quite heated these days.

2006 LBS Challenge opportunities, cash, and recognition to developers

Recently at the CTIA Wireless IT & entertainment conference in San Francisco, CA. Navteq and sponsors kicked off the 2005/2006 Global LBS Challenge. What makes this year’s event special is the “doubling” of the challenge to include a North American and European challenge. To entice developers, Navteq is putting up more than $800,000 in cash and prizes with the grand prize winner taking home $50k cash and $100k in data licenses. For glimpse of what took place at the kick off in San Fran check out this article at http://www.gisuser.com/content/view/7031/28/. You'll find info about important dates, some images, and pointers to developer programs and free tools.

Virtual Earth Developer Competition

Developers of web mapping apps or mach-ups using Virtual Earth may be interested in this competition. Enter the Virtual Earth contest by developing your own "map app" using the Virtual Earth JScript map control and API. Then submit your entry before October 14, 2005. Check out the details at virtualearth.com - see http://www.viavirtualearth.com/vve/Promos/Competition.notitia.ashx