OpenStreetMap

Definition

OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a collaborative mapping project that creates a free, editable map of the world, made by volunteers who contribute geographic data. This platform allows users to add and update information about roads, trails, cafés, railway stations, and much more, making it a vital resource for both personal and professional use in data journalism and narrative contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. OpenStreetMap was launched in 2004 and has since grown into one of the largest open data projects in the world.
2. The data in OpenStreetMap is contributed by volunteers who use GPS devices, aerial imagery, and other free sources to improve map accuracy.
3. OpenStreetMap is often used as an alternative to commercial mapping services because it is open and free for anyone to use.
4. The platform supports various applications such as humanitarian aid, urban planning, transportation logistics, and tourism.
5. With its extensive global coverage, OpenStreetMap plays a critical role in data journalism by providing rich geographic context for stories and reports.

Review Questions

• How does OpenStreetMap utilize crowdsourcing to enhance its mapping capabilities?
  • OpenStreetMap relies on crowdsourcing by allowing volunteers from around the world to contribute and edit map data. This approach means anyone can participate in improving map accuracy by adding information about their local area or correcting existing entries. The collective efforts of these volunteers create a dynamic and continuously updated map resource that reflects real-world changes.
• Discuss the significance of OpenStreetMap in relation to geographic data journalism.
  • OpenStreetMap significantly enhances geographic data journalism by providing access to rich, detailed maps that are freely available for use. Journalists can leverage this data to visualize complex stories, highlight spatial relationships, and present their findings in an engaging manner. This accessibility allows for a deeper understanding of various issues by embedding geographic context directly into narratives.
• Evaluate the impact of OpenStreetMap on traditional mapping services and its implications for narrative journalism.
  • The rise of OpenStreetMap has challenged traditional mapping services by offering an open-source alternative that prioritizes community contributions over commercial interests. This shift not only democratizes access to geographic information but also enriches narrative journalism with more diverse data sources. Journalists can now tell stories using localized information that might not be available from conventional mapping platforms, ultimately leading to more informed reporting and greater public engagement.

Related terms

Geographic Information System (GIS): A system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data.

Crowdsourcing: The practice of obtaining information or services by soliciting contributions from a large group of people, often via the internet.

Map Data: Information that describes features on a map, including their locations and attributes, which can be used for analysis and visualization.