Create a Store Locator with Atlas: Step-by-Step Guide
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Step 1: Creating a New Map in Atlas
- Step 2: Adding Locations and Formatting
- Step 3: Bulk Uploading Locations with a CSV Spreadsheet
- Step 4: Styling the Map with Different Themes
- Step 5: Customizing Markers and Icons
- Step 6: Styling the Modal Window
- Step 7: Adding Current Location Feature
- Step 8: Preview and Customization Options
- Step 9: Embedding the Map on Squarespace Website
- Conclusion
Creating a Store Locator: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you looking to create a store locator for your business? In this guide, we will walk you through the process of creating a store locator using a free tool called Atlas. Whether you have a small business with just a few locations or a larger enterprise with multiple branches, having a store locator on your website can greatly enhance the user experience and help your customers find your nearest store easily. So, let's dive in and learn how to create a store locator step by step.
Step 1: Creating a New Map in Atlas
The first step in creating a store locator using Atlas is to create a new map. Atlas allows you to create custom Google maps that can be embedded on your website. To get started, open Atlas and create a new map. Give your map a relevant name, such as "Burger Priest Locations" for example.
Step 2: Adding Locations and Formatting
Once you have created a new map, it's time to add your store locations. Start by adding your first location and provide all the necessary information in the notes section. You can also format the information to make it visually appealing.
Step 3: Bulk Uploading Locations with a CSV Spreadsheet
If you have multiple locations to add, it can be time-consuming to add them individually. Luckily, Atlas allows you to bulk upload locations using a CSV spreadsheet. Simply import the CSV file with the location details, and all the locations will be added to your map automatically.
Step 4: Styling the Map with Different Themes
Now that you have added your locations, it's time to style the map. Atlas offers a variety of built-in map themes to choose from. You can also import custom map styles from websites like snazzymaps.com. Select a map theme that suits your brand and copy the code into Atlas to apply the custom style.
Step 5: Customizing Markers and Icons
To make your store locations stand out on the map, you can customize the markers and icons. Choose the marker color that matches your brand, such as the Burger Priest yellow in our example. You can also select different shapes for the markers or add a custom icon, like your brand logo, to make them more visually appealing.
Step 6: Styling the Modal Window
The modal window is the pop-up that appears when a user clicks on a store location marker. To make the modal window more visually appealing, you can customize its appearance. Play with options like shadow, roundness, title weight and size, address color to match your brand, and more. Tailor the modal window to create a unique and engaging user experience.
Step 7: Adding Current Location Feature
Consider adding a feature that allows users to see their current location on the map. By enabling the current location control, users can click a button to reveal their location, enhancing the functionality of the store locator. However, do note that users must grant permission for their location to be shared to comply with privacy regulations.
Step 8: Preview and Customization Options
Before embedding the map on your website, take a moment to preview and make any necessary customizations. Atlas offers options like adding a sidebar, title, and search box. You can also remove Atlas branding if you are on a paid plan. Make sure everything looks perfect before moving on.
Step 9: Embedding the Map on Squarespace Website
Now that you have customized and previewed your map, it's time to embed it on your Squarespace website. Copy the embed code provided by Atlas and paste it into a code element on your website. Adjust the height of the map if needed, and voila! Your store locator is ready to go.
In conclusion, creating a store locator using Atlas is a straightforward and efficient process. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily create a visually appealing and functional store locator to help your customers find your nearest locations. So, why wait? Start creating your store locator today and enhance your customers' experience with a user-friendly navigation tool.
Highlights:
- Create a store locator using Atlas
- Step-by-step guide for easy implementation
- Customize map style, markers, and modal windows
- Add current location feature for enhanced functionality
- Preview and customize before embedding on a website
- Easy integration with Squarespace
- Improve user experience and navigation
FAQ
Q: Is Atlas a free tool?
A: Yes, Atlas is a free tool that allows you to create custom Google maps and embed them on your website.
Q: Can I add multiple locations at once using Atlas?
A: Yes, you can bulk upload locations using a CSV spreadsheet, saving time and effort.
Q: How can I customize the appearance of the map?
A: Atlas offers various options for customizing the map's style, including choosing from different themes and importing custom map styles.
Q: Can visitors see their current location on the map?
A: Yes, by enabling the current location feature, visitors can click a button to reveal their location on the map.
Q: Can I embed the map on a Squarespace website?
A: Yes, Atlas allows easy integration with Squarespace websites. Simply copy the embed code and paste it into a code element on your website.
