Oddpath launched a couple days back, which interactively puts an interface on data from iBegin Source, a business data provider service (free for non-commercial use!) I wrote about a month or so ago. The result is a local search engine which works seamlessly and spits out hundred-times better looking results than anything you’ve used so far (including the Yellow Pages!).
A couple things that makes Oddpath stand out from others is their simple and genius URL structure and their handy made-for-mobile version, which provides the best walk through I’ve seen in ages. Also available are traditional directory and categorized places of interest versions, as well as an excellent Google Maps mashup which layers the different types of places (bars, clubs, hotel, etc.)
Opinion
I have to be honest, Oddpath and services as such have a future. What they’ve done is taken the simplest of ideas (iBegin Source, which is the best free data since sliced bread) and a bit of Web 2.0 ingenuity — with the mashup and great interface and all — and created something useful. The result? A simple service which provides great help and benefit to anyone who comes across it.
