This item was updated at 4:22 pm, Aug. 20, to reflect a reply from Microsoft.
Or, based on this sole-source contract announcement from the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, Google now owns, at the least, visualization of the planet.
NGA says it needs a secure system that will provide Web-based access to geospatial visualization services and Open Geospatial Consortium compliant Web-service interfaces. It says only Google can do the job.
"Google is the only source that can meet the government's requirement for worldwide access, unlimited processing and Open Geospatial Consortium compliant Web service interfaces," said NGA, which plans to award the company a two-year contract, with two one-year options.
NGA did not detail the value of the Google deal, but I have a hunch it's big bucks.
I've asked Microsoft what its Bing folks think of this, but have not heard back.
Update: Micorosft spokesman Keith Hodson said the company's Bing Maps Server can meet the NGA's requirements.
Bob Brewin
Bob Brewin joined Government Executive in April 2007, bringing with him more than 20 years of experience as a journalist focusing on defense issues and technology. Bob covers the world of defense and information technology for Nextgov, and is the author of the “What’s Brewin” blog.
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