Hacker News Reader

Business Profiles on Google Maps drives the monopoly.

If you want your business found on Google Maps, you need to provide the address, hours, etc. This is one of the first things you do when you open a business, even if you don't have a website.

Not many people bother to add the same to OpenStreetMap and that's why everyone uses Google over OSM to search for businesses.

View on HN

Well, when I registered an LLC in the US, Google mailed me a postcard to confirm my address, and third-party providers begin calling to help "claim my Google listing". So they've really created an ecosystem that you immediately become part of rather than something you have to seek out. Edit: I also completely agree that this is what drives the monopoly.

Sounds like there is hope: if Google can find you, so can the Overture Foundation.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com