I am not sure if you have read my bio, but if you did, you would see that I work for the NAVTEQ Network for Developers, which is also known as NN4D because you can find us at NN4D.com (and @NN4D). Read on for more from Greg in this article first published at GISuser.com

What is that anyway?

Well, the NAVTEQ Network for Developers core mission is pretty basic really; Connect LBS developers with NAVTEQ data to enable them to make the next generation of location-based apps.

So, how do we do this? 

Well, that is where things get fun and interesting!

Ok, let’s take a step back and talk about NAVTEQ for just a second. For those of you that are not familiar with NAVTEQ, here is a quote about them found on all the press releases... “NAVTEQ is the leading global provider of location content in the form of maps, traffic and places data that enables navigation, location-based services and mobile advertising around the world.”  To put it in other words, NAVTEQ sells map data and they do a pretty good business doing so.

Another thing you need to know is that NAVTEQ is a Business to Business company.  NAVTEQ does not really sell direct to the consumer.  Consumers are users of NAVTEQ map data, but it is always through a NAVTEQ customer’s product, instead of from NAVTEQ directly.  Since NAVTEQ is a B2B, they have become very good at doing business with very large corporations (such as automotive manufactures and telcos) and in doing so has forged some strong  and loyal business ties, which you as a developer can take advantage of through NN4D.

Ok then, now that you have a bit of background, you might be asking yourself what can the NAVTEQ Network for Developers do for you?

Well, since NAVTEQ has forged some great business partnerships, we can get your app seen by all the big players through the NAVTEQ App Warehouse.

We can hook you up with our partners APIs and SDKs (http://www.nn4d.com/site/global/build/overview/p_build.jsp )

We can answer your technical questions. See also the forums (http://www.nn4d.com/show_forums.do )

We provide a place for you to advertise your LBS needs to the
community.

We give you free app testing.

And we put on Developer Days to teach you how to use the APIs and SDKs
found on NN4D!

So, yeah, we have some great stuff to take advantage of!  Of course,
you have to become a member first, but once you are all signed up, then you are good to go!  Seriously though, we are here to help the developer of location based apps to create and market their ideas!  Looking for guidance and advice?  NN4D is here to help!

Anyway, now you know a bit about what the NAVTEQ Network for
Developers is, so I hope you join our community and take advantage of
all we have to offer!  If nothing else, you can follow us on twitter
@NN4D and fan us on Facebook