Google Earth Pro, first premiered in 2001 from its original creator Keyhole, Inc., now only costs 20 seconds of time to download and install.
The previously free version of Google Earth was a novel tool, useful for dynamically viewing cities and landscapes. The Pro version has much more robust geospatial tools that are especially useful to architects. First and foremost is the Pro versions’ US Parcel Data search which allows users to zoom to a property and instantly view its assessed value, zoning designations, finished square feet, construction date, lot size and other valuable info. Other layers can reveal demographic data and traffic counts, though if these are not always up-to-date. Other measuring tools allow users to quickly calculate distances, both linear and radial, as well as the square footage of custom-outlined areas.
Using Google Earth Pro’s US Parcel Data. Image © Google.
For those more skilled in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), the Pro version allows you to import .shp files, high resolution images, and other GIS data sets into your Google Earth view. Additionally, the Pro version allows for batch geo-coding, essentially converting coordinates into graphic features on the map. Combined with its readily-accessible extensive data sets and ability to make videos, Google Earth Pro is a free and valuable tool for visualizing and communicating geographic information. Considering the original software was funded by the CIA, it’s all the most delightful that the program is now publicly available.
Some of Google Earth Pro’s features.
Leading image via iclarified.
