To summarize the article (in my words):

• The understanding of location differs based on cultural norms, so no global standard can be used for cartography. Instead of standardizing, the way the audience interprets data needs to be understood.
• Linking icons to the signs used in the real-world assists with wayfinding: “This combination of global and local icons helps to make the map feel relevant and familiar to locals while being approachable and usable for tourists—allowing Google Maps to be internationally legible and approachable”
• The design process focuses on helping people to do the things they need to do (task completion). All design decisions go through this filter.
• The Google look-and-feel isn’t anything specific. Instead, “Googleyness” is based on the focus on the end-user’s tasks, and clarity of style.

Full Article:
http://www.core77.com/blog/case_study/google_maps_designing_the_modern_atlas_21486.asp

Source: Flowing Data

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This talk is a much shorter version of the very useful presentation:

• First Month on the Job in Bhutan: Trial by Earthquake
• First Month on the Job in Bhutan: Trial by Fire

Mark has also posted this video about the destruction of these two events:

Required Skills and Experience

• Must be able to work independently and with a team to design, implement and test web based data management, project management and collaboration systems;
• High attention to detail;
• Excellent English written and verbal skills;
• 5+ years experience developing ASP.NET/PHP/Java web applications;
• Be able to work in a team context with non-technical users;
• B.Sc (Computer Science), B.Tech, B.Eng or related degree with equivalent experience;