Google has updated its Google Qualified Developer program, this time with subtle changes to the Google Qualified JavaScript maps Developer Program.
In 2009, Google launched its Google Qualified JS Maps Developer Program to enlist developers to qualify for inclusion in the company's directory of certified developers. However, with the recent release of the Google Maps JavaScript API Version 3, Google updated its developer program to "help interested parties contract with you for their geo development projects," said Shannon Madison in a post on behalf of Google's Developer Qualification team.
Said Madison:
""The Google Qualified Developer program uses a version release and points threshold strategy rather than setting an absolute term on earned qualifications. Instead of picking an arbitrary duration such as one year, developers have the opportunity to continuously earn points towards their qualification by resubmitting assignments and assisting with exam updates and testing.""
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Madison added that the Google Maps JavaScript API "lets you embed Google Maps in your own Web pages. Version 3 of this API is especially designed to be faster and more applicable to mobile devices, as well as traditional desktop browser applications."
According to a description on the Google Code site, version 3 of Google Maps JavaScript API "provides a number of utilities for manipulating maps (just like on the http://maps.google.com Web page) and adding content to the map through a variety of services, allowing you to create robust maps applications on your Website."
The JavaScript Maps API V3 is a free service, available for any Website that is free to consumers.
Meanwhile, current JS Maps API developers earned a minimum of 3,000 out of a possible 5,000 points in order to become qualified. To earn these points, they submitted practical evidence of their programming capabilities by writing applications, demonstrated their commitment to the developer community, supplied professional references and passed the JS Maps API Exam.
"Now that JS Maps V3 has been released, the developers who did not participate in early testing have been notified of potential points expiration," Madison said. "Developers will have 30 days to take the new V3 exam, and submit new applications using the V3 API."
Madison said developers must maintain a minimum number of points to remain qualified within the program. Points are awarded for examples of development work, community participation, professional references and scores on examinations.
Moreover, the Developer Qualification program provides a mechanism by which Google can evaluate and promote the best developers in the community, but does not provide training in preparation for qualification, Madison said. With the success of the program there exists a business opportunity for third-party training vendors to develop and deliver this training.
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