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From Internet Protocols to Cloud Services, Some Technology Is So Omnipresent It’s Invisible
In today’s digital landscape, some technology is so ubiquitous that it’s hard to imagine a world without it. From internet protocols and operating systems to databases and cloud services, these innovations have become an integral part of our daily lives. However, there’s another technology that has flown under the radar despite its significant impact on various industries – OpenStreetMap (OSM). This community-driven platform provides geographic data and maps to companies and software developers, allowing them to rely less on proprietary incumbents in the space.
The Birth of OpenStreetMap: A Wiki Map of the World
OpenStreetMap was created by Steve Coast, a University College London dropout who has since worked in various map- and location-related roles at Microsoft, TomTom, Telenav, and Grab. Although Coast is no longer directly involved on a day-to-day basis, he recently marked OpenStreetMap’s 20th anniversary with a blog post that shed light on the project’s early days. In it, he mentioned two preceding success stories from the open source realm – Wikipedia and Linux – that convinced him of the potential for OSM.
A Gargantuan Collaborative Project: Mapping the World One Feature at a Time
OpenStreetMap is often compared to Wikipedia due to its collaborative nature, but there’s a world of difference between sharing knowledge about micronations and mapping out geographic features on a global scale. Today, OpenStreetMap boasts over 10 million contributors who work together to map everything from streets and buildings to rivers, canyons, and other environmental features.
Data Collection: A Multifaceted Approach
The foundation for this collaborative effort lies in the data collected from various sources, including publicly available aerial imagery, maps sourced from governments and private organizations like Microsoft, and contributions from users. OpenStreetMap contributors can use editing tools to manually add and edit data or even venture out into the wild with GPS devices to map new areas.
The Non-Profit Aspect: A Decentralized Model for Success
As the sole creator of OpenStreetMap, Coast was instrumental in developing early software and advocating for its adoption. In 2006, he established the OpenStreetMap Foundation (OSMF), a non-profit organization that oversees the project with the help of volunteer board members elected by its members. The OSMF operates primarily through donations and memberships, with less than a dozen members steering key decisions and managing finances.
Licensing: An Open-Source Approach to Data Sharing
The Open Database License (ODbL) is a key component of OpenStreetMap’s success. This license allows users to freely access and share the data without restrictions, fostering collaboration and innovation among developers and companies. This open-source approach has led to the development of numerous applications, services, and features built on top of OSM.
The Impact of OpenStreetMap: Redefining Geographic Data
OpenStreetMap’s influence can be seen in various industries, from navigation and mapping to urban planning and environmental conservation. By providing high-quality data and maps, OSM has democratized access to geographic information, enabling companies and individuals to develop innovative solutions.
Conclusion
In a world where big tech dominates the narrative, it’s refreshing to see community-driven initiatives like OpenStreetMap thriving. This non-profit platform is redefining the way we think about geographic data, promoting collaboration, innovation, and open-source principles. As technology continues to shape our lives, it’s essential to recognize the quiet successes that are making a significant impact behind the scenes.
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