What are mashups?
A mashup is a website “that combines data from more than one source into a single integrated tool”.1 Data sources often include maps (such as Google Maps 
) and databases (such as business locations). Mashups depend on organizations sharing data. They also depend on software developers to create programs that can work together.
Why would I use a mashup?
- To search for and locate information and services.
- To share and connect with other people.
- To track information such as disease outbreaks.
How are people using mashups to respond to HIV?
- To connect people living with HIV to services such as housing and meals.
- To post and find HIV-related job openings.
- To host AIDS candlelight memorials.
- To illustrate the impact of hospital closures on low-income communities and communities of color.
What technology do I need to use a mashup?
You need a computer with an Internet connection to access mashups. Creating your own mashup requires a certain level of comfort with software technology, but there are several online tools for building mashups that do not require technical expertise - and many ready-made mashups can be customized by plugging in your own data or modifying the settings.
If you are interested in creating your own mashups, “plug and play” tools like ZeeMaps and Dapper can help you get started. ProgrammableWeb provides tutorials and resources related to mashups.
Where can I learn more about mashups?
Examples of mashups addressing HIV and AIDS include:
Examples of other public health mashups include:
- 1 Wikipedia, “Mashup (web application hybrid)”, Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mashup_(web_application_hybrid) . Accessed on 12/29/08.
Information and resources taken from the AIDS.gov blog.
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