How to create map overlays on google map?

What is the most efficient and robust way to create a city map using Google Maps API?

• I would like to create a city map, address book and business listing directory for a city in Africa which I want to use for a navigation app. What would be the best way to do this? I know Google Maps is a good starting point but i haven't had the time to study it. Any advice on creating these navigation routes would be appreciated. I am good with algorithms and programming but I need a strategy to get the data an put it on the map before i can start on the actual navigation app. I don't think Google will be reaching that city anytime soon so I want to do it first.

• Answer:

  If I understand you correctly, you want to map a city in Africa which is not currently mapped in Google Maps. In this case have a look at Googles Map Maker site (Map Maker Overview http://maps.google.com/support/bin/static.py?page=guide.cs&guide=30028&topic=30029&answer=157176 ) and see if your country is in the program. Otherwise you would have to put your geographic data into your own database (e.g PostgreSQL ) and show the data using your own mapping service such as MapServer (http://www.mapserver.org/ ).