In an apparent move to bolster the renewal rates of its OnStar service, General Motors announced its OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation on Aug. 30. But wait; there are no maps! That’s right, GM says it’s completely audio directions system is easier to use and safer. The GM scheme involves calling an OnStar “advisor” who then sends directions to the in-car navigation system that then uses GPS tracking to tell the driver where to go. I should add that this wonderful breakthough service is available to OnStar customers only if they renew their subscription for “just” $299 per year.

There are lots of things wrong here. First, other vehicles come with factory-installed navigation systems for a one-time fee that is hidden in an options package. You get a nice screen with lots of capabilities INCLUDING voice activation in many. For that matter one can use a decent portable or aftermarket system for a reasonable price. One does not stare at the map while driving; instead one glances periodically and listens to the voice directions common in the systems used. Second, for an entirely audio navigation system, for “just” the price of a decent meal, I would take along my wife (or an equally cabable “advisor”). And I get a bonus — the color commentary on my driving!Most important though is that many people prefer to look at maps to find the way.

While we prefer the paper maps to the ones on those small car screens, at least we can see where we are supposed to go. By its nature, wayfinding is a spatial activity. Our brains want visual assistance. For many of us, while it might be “easier” to use, I don’t think the new OnStar feature will be more effective than map-based systems in getting people where they want to go.