Optimizing APIs for geocoding and maps
TopDoctors was already using three Google Maps APIs:
Geocoding API – this shows patients where the closest doctor is to their location, converting geographical latitude/longitude coordinates into street addresses.
Dynamic Maps (JavaScript API) and Maps Static API – which, when combined with geocoding, provides information on a map about where a doctor or medical center is located.
However, these APIs weren’t optimized, which resulted in a poor user experience.
After assessing the setup, SoftwareOne proposed that Maps Static be established as the default API for each search, rather than the JavaScript that had been used up until that point.
As a result of this change, initial loading times were reduced. If the user continued the search, the JavaScript API for dynamic maps would load afterwards, improving the overall user experience.
Complex searches were optimized by around 170% with the optimization of the APIs from Google Maps Platform.
– Alberto Lahuerta, Senior Developer, Top Doctors