Frome SH54 - 10

Review of Getlost Maps Donation Bundle - Australia 1:250,000 V15a

This review addresses my use of the ‘Bundle’ that I subsequently downloaded after downloading and using a number of individual maps. My wife and I used many of the maps during an 8000 klm tour through central Australia. The maps were running on an iPad and we’re a supplement to two GPS programmes - we were exploring historical sites and the topo maps include much of the detail not included on modern GPS software. My wife navigated while I drove. She had some issues initially - mainly due to a lack of familiarity with the maps - but rapidly came to grips. She found the individual maps better than the Bundle because of the Legend. First, I have used the source maps on regular occasions for over 40 years so am well aware of the benefits (and limitations). Second, the individual maps have an advantage over the ‘Bundle’ in that the legend is included. The legend enables rapid identification of the adjoining map - something not in the Bundle. My view is there are two potential developments that would make the Bundle better. 1. Include the adjoining map names at each of the four corners. When planning (ie. not necessarily at the location hence identified by GPS) it is difficult currently to determine which map to open next. 2. When in location, and moving, make opening the next map seamless - the map you are on opens automatically as you enter its boundaries. There are times where you move off the map in close proximity to a map corner (three ‘Maps Near Me’ to chose from. The maps can be worked through to discover the correct one, but an auto-opening function would remove the issue. In summary, we found the maps adequate.