OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a collaborative, crowd-sourced project that aims to create a free, editable map of the world. It provides geographic data in the form of a database and is used for mapping, geocoding, and routing services. The usage of such a tool in policy and decision-making can have a massive impact on how local government units (LGUs) can use and have open access to geospatial data.
The OSM Data Report seeks to present the initiatives done by the partner LGUs in furthering open mapping and open geospatial in their respective jurisdictions. This mapping inititiative provides far reaching benefits to the LGUs in the following areas:
Accessibility: OSM provides free access to high-quality maps and geospatial data, making it accessible to people and organizations that might not otherwise have access to such data.
Participatory Mapping: OSM is a community-driven project, with thousands of volunteers around the world contributing to the maps. This results in local knowledge and expertise that is reflected in the maps.
Customization: OSM provides data in an open format, allowing users to customize the maps to fit their specific needs.
Cost-effectiveness: OSM provides a cost-effective alternative to proprietary mapping data and services, making it accessible to organizations with limited budgets.
Disaster response: LGUs can utilize OSM in their disaster response and recovery efforts to help first responders reach those in need quickly and effectively.
This initiative shows how migrating to a digital data collection system can greatly improve any field data collection activity. Together with the usage of an open-source geospatial database, data can be easily stored, accessed, and then utilized for further planning and decision making.
Download the full OSM Data reports below: