Write for Map Observer

What we publish

Our beat is the surface where Google, local businesses, and the people optimising for them collide. In practice that means: algorithm updates and volatility, GBP policy and product changes, spam and enforcement, Map Pack behaviour, tools and platform shifts, investigations into bad actors, and rigorous practitioner deep-dives.

Standards. We publish original reporting or original analysis. Named sources are strongly preferred; anonymous sources require editor approval and a documented reason. Every claim should be backed by evidence you can share — screenshots, data, documents, or on-record quotes. We don't republish or lightly rewrite other outlets' stories, and we don't run pieces that exist to promote a tool, agency, or client.

What we don't publish. Link-bait listicles, AI-generated filler, undisclosed sponsored content, or generic "top 10 SEO tips" posts.

How to pitch

Email editor@mapobserver.com with the subject line Pitch: <headline>. Keep the pitch tight — one screen is plenty. Include:

• The story in two or three sentences.
• Why it matters now — the news peg, or the reason readers need it this week.
• The sources, data, or people you'll draw on.
• Expected length. Most pieces run 600–2,500 words.
• A short note on your background, with two or three clips or links.

Pitch first, don't send finished drafts on spec. Unsolicited full drafts are rarely commissioned; a good pitch is faster for both of us.

Exclusivity. Pitches should be exclusive to Map Observer while under consideration. If you've offered the same story elsewhere, say so up front.

Conflicts of interest. Disclose anything relevant — your employer, clients, tools or companies you're writing about, and any financial stake in the outcome.

Rights, bylines & response time

Rights. Contributors retain copyright. Map Observer takes first publication rights and a perpetual, non-exclusive licence to host, syndicate, and include the piece in our archives, feeds, and newsletters.

Bylines. Every published piece carries a byline and a short bio with one link of your choice.

Editing. Editors may copyedit for clarity, house style, and legal risk. Material changes are reviewed with you before publication. Our editorial standards and corrections policy apply to contributed work.

Compensation. Contributions are unpaid at this stage. We're upfront about that so you can decide whether the byline and audience are worth your time.

Response time. The editor responds to pitches within five business days. If you haven't heard back after ten business days, treat it as a pass — you're free to place the pitch elsewhere.

Ready to pitch?

Send it to editor@mapobserver.com. If the story stands up, we'll commission it.

Pitch the editor →