How Can the Google Maps API Solve Address Standardization Problems in a Database?

Address Standardization within a Database

When managing a database with numerous locations and addresses, standardization becomes essential. Slight variations in addresses, such as "500 W Main St," "500 West Main St," or "500 West Main Street," can create redundancy and data inconsistencies.

While a simple query based on the first few characters of an address can identify some duplicates, it has limitations. To achieve more precise standardization, a more sophisticated approach is required.

Google Maps API to the Rescue

A powerful solution for address standardization is the Google Maps API. By submitting an address to the API, you receive a standardized and validated format. The API is capable of recognizing and correcting common variations in street names, abbreviations, and apartment numbers.

For example, both "500 S Main St, Providence RI 02903" and "500 South Main Steet, Providence RI 02903" would return the same standardized address:

"formatted_address" : "500 S Main St, Providence, RI 02903, USA"

Benefits of Using the Google Maps API

• Accurate address standardization
• Consistency across the database
• Reduced data redundancy
• Improved data quality
• Enhanced data integrity

VBA Code for Google Maps API Integration

Integrating the Google Maps API into VBA code allows you to automate address standardization within Microsoft Access. Here's an example:

Dim httpReq As New MSXML2.ServerXMLHTTP
httpReq.Open "GET", "https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/geocode/json?address=500 South Main Steet,Providence RI 02903", False
httpReq.send
Dim response As String
response = httpReq.responseText

' Parse the JSON response for the standardized address

By harnessing the power of the Google Maps API, you can effectively standardize addresses in your database, ensuring data accuracy, consistency, and integrity.

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