KML File vs. KMZ File

[RezStream8]

When should you use a KMZ file? What are the benefits to using a KMZ file as opposed to just a standalone KML file?

[kadesmith]

Sorry, I meant to respond to this days ago.  Started, but didn't finish and then it left my mind.

It sounds to me like you want to place a Google map on your site to show the location of the business?  If this is correct, I wouldn't use KML nor KMZ.  I would just use a javascript point market that represents the one location using the Google Maps API.  You can see what I mean as I have several points on one site I'm finishing up at http://www.snoshield.com/contest/christmas2012

You can also show service area like this: http://www.kcdirt.com/contact

Both of those maps use strictly JavaScript, there is no KML or KMZ on them.

[RezStream8]

Thanks for the feedback! Are you saying that the KMZ file is for when you have more than one location for a particular business/domain? If you only have one business location, would a KML be ideal as it relates to local SEO exposure? We work with independent hotels. Therefore, locally speaking, what do you feel is the best strategy regarding site maps?

[kadesmith]

I'm not sure if you are referencing SEO in this post, but here's the breakdown from my experience (Several years in the GIS realm)

KMZ when you have a lot of markers in the map making the file size is large and you know the end user will use a Google product to read it.

KML if you are needing to read the file with a program outside of Google due to incompatibility issues with the KMZ format in other programs.