Understanding the Google Local Guide Points System

The Google Local Guides program rewards contributors based on their actions within the platform, such as adding photos, writing reviews, and answering questions. While the core principle of the program is to encourage contributions, a deep dive into the specifics of the points system reveals several interesting aspects, particularly regarding the prioritization of photo contributions. This article delves into why photo counts are a crucial factor in determining the points system and how the recent changes have impacted this landscape.

Why Photo Counts Matter in the Points System

Google has always valued the quality and quantity of contributions from Local Guides. One of the key reasons for counting photo points rather than views is to encourage: more and better contributions. Here are some reasons why:

Encouragement of Contribution

Adding photos is a direct and tangible action that users can contribute to. This approach ensures that contributors are actively engaging with the platform, which is crucial for building a robust and valuable database of information. As a result, the points system places a premium on the number of photos added, rather than passive views, to motivate more users to contribute.

Quality Over Quantity

Counting only views might lead to a focus on gaining visibility rather than providing genuinely valuable content. The points system aims to incentivize not just the quantity of contributions but the quality as well. By encouraging users to add photos, Google is indirectly promoting the creation of more informative and engaging content, which ultimately benefits all users on the platform.

Measurable Actions

The number of photos added is a concrete and easily trackable metric. This makes it more straightforward to monitor and reward contributions. In contrast, views can vary greatly depending on external factors such as time trends and user behavior, making this metric less reliable for measuring engagement and contribution.

Leveling the Playing Field

Some users may naturally have a larger audience or more followers, which could unfairly inflate their view counts. By focusing on the number of contributions, Google ensures that all users have an equal opportunity to earn points based on their actual activity, regardless of their pre-existing follower count.

Community Building

The points system fosters a sense of community among Local Guides. By encouraging users to showcase their experiences and knowledge through photos, Google fosters a collaborative environment. This ultimately benefits the overall user experience on Google Maps, as it enriches the platform with diverse and high-quality content.

Revised Points and Badge System

The points and badge system for Google Local Guides has been refined over the years. Since 2018, the system now considers three main factors for calculating points:

Volume, Reach, and Impact

Volume: This factor assesses the total number of photos or videos uploaded by a contributor. (5 points per photo, 7 points per video)

Reach: This factor considers the number of places included in the contributions. (Contributors can earn unlimited photos and points per location)

Impact: This factor measures the total number of photo views. (Contributors can earn unlimited photos and points per location)

The introduction of these three factors has created a more comprehensive and balanced system for rewarding contributions. Here are the badges achieved based on these factors:

Photography Badges

Novice Photographer Badge Volume: 3 photos

Expert Photographer Badge Volume: 100 photos Reach: 25 places Impact: 100,000 views

Master Photographer Badge Volume: 1,000 photos Reach: 100 places Impact: 1,000,000 views

This badge system not only rewards users for their contributions but also distinguishes them within the Local Guide community. It serves as both an incentive and a marker of expertise and dedication.

For myself, personally, I have seen over one million views on my Google Maps photos. However, achieving 1,000 photos is a significant challenge, as I am selective about the places I review and the photos I share. Nonetheless, the current system remains a good incentive for those passionate about being a Local Guide.

Conclusion

The points and badge system for Google Local Guides is designed to promote active participation and a diversity of content. By prioritizing direct contributions such as photo uploads, the system ensures that users are rewarded based on their tangible efforts. The three-factor approach of volume, reach, and impact provides a more balanced and fair way of measuring contributions. As an enthusiast in this community, I believe these changes are beneficial and encourage the creation of high-quality content that enriches the Google Maps user experience.