Extending Tableau's mapping capabilities without leaving Tableau
In our everyday lives, a map can be helpful for better understanding the world around us. For instance, maps are often used on websites, television, or in printed media to present demographic information. In such instances, the mapping requirement is static since the immediate goal does not require movement. Some businesses only have static mapping requirements—for example, a retail chain might create a visualization that includes a map to better understand sales performance in a given region. In such cases, movement between locations is not a direct need.
Often, however, a map is needed to navigate from point A to point B. This kind of mapping requirement is more complicated, because it encompasses static needs (what restaurant is nearby?), but must also deliver additional information, such as routes and distances (how can I get to that restaurant?). These dynamic mapping needs assume that movement is...