In+ersec+ion for Spatial People

Via James I learned about Microsoft's launch of OpenGeocoder, a geocoding tool using bounding boxes for places. What's nice it that Microsoft gives back all resulting data to the public domain. There's a JSON API too.  

From the about: "What is this? OpenGeocoder is an experiment in creating and serving geocodable results. Places are turned in to bounding boxes. Large datasets, processing and geocoding software is skipped. Instead a simple mapping between strings and boxes is used. All data submitted is placed in the public domain for anyone to use.

How do I use OpenGeocoder? Search using the text box. If your result is not found you are given the ability to add it. Drag the rectangle corners around until the rectangle covers the place you searched for and then click 'Save'. Your data is placed in to the public domain for anyone to use."