GPS+-+Global+Positioning+System

= GPS - Global Positioning System = toc The Global Positioning System (GPS) is commonly used today for turn-by-turn driving directions via special in-car systems or some cellular phones. Early use of the system was by the U.S. military in the Gulf War during the 1990s. This early use allowed search and rescue teams to locate missing soldiers, and greater accuracy in mapping locations. The GPS system consists of 24 satellites in orbit 12,000 miles above the planet; the technology was made available to the public in 2000, once the military began to relax some of its security concerns. This public availability paved the way for the development of personal navigation systems. Currently, GPS is used by cell phones to provide navigation services, emergency services, and can be used to create detailed maps. There are many additional uses in various cell phone applications. Some provide data about where certain games are played. Additional uses can be made of the technology for libraries and other information centers.

**Navigation Systems and Workout Applications**
media type="custom" key="11418128" width="170" height="170" align="right" Many consumers are aware of the use of GPS to provide turn-by-turn directions to and from almost any location. There are numerous GPS devices available on the market for the public to use to navigate via automobile. However, these aren’t the only navigation systems available. GPS watches allow hikers and bikers to navigate trails and track workout progress. Other exercise software is available as well. The Nike+ running system now has several incarnations. Users with an iPod device without GPS capabilities can use the shoe insert to track mileage and send that information back to the iPod to be transmitted to the PC upon sync; iPhone users can track the runs without the additional shoe insert, or there is a Nike+ wristband available for those who do not want to buy the special Nike shoes required to house the insert. (Video at right from nikeplus.com).

**Foursquare, Gowalla and Similar Applications**
There are a number of new applications that allow users to check in to locations when they travel. The applications vary in what they can do. Foursquare is a game style application. Users check in to stores, restaurants and other locations and earn points for each check in. They compete against friends to see who can earn the post points per check in. Gowalla provides a similar service. Though not a competition with points, users can check in and collect badges or electronic prizes when users start a story by checking in. Other services offer similar user experiences, through applications such as Loopt and Yelp. Despite integrated competition from Facebook and Google, these applications have continued because they offer unique not included in the Facebook and Google check in services.

**Libraries and Information Centers**
GPS is still evolving, and while there are many services for use, it is likely that the user experience will be enhanced as the technology continues to upgrade and change. Nevertheless, libraries and information centers can find ways to use GPS now. Foursquare allows businesses to offer specials to users who check in frequently and gather user statistics, all for free. Libraries with coffee shops or friends of the library bookshops could offer discounts to users who regularly check in. Or fine forgiveness to the mayor of any of the local libraries could be a reward. In addition, the library gets statistical information that can be used to track library visitors, even those visitors who may not check books out or get library cards. As GPS applications continue to develop, more opportunity for library and information center use will manifest.