Is there a recommended way to contribute to OpenStreetMaps? There's so much stuff in Vancouver that could use updates, but I'm not sure where to start
Is there a recommended way to contribute to OpenStreetMaps? There's so much stuff in Vancouver that could use updates, but I'm not sure where to start
cross-posted from: https://lemmy.ca/post/4273550
It's a bit overwhelming. I see a lot of documentation, but it's a lot to read through for the average user.
Should I just download the surveyor app and start fixing things? Is there another community that's updating things?
A big issue I notice is that the building lines are all janky, which makes it annoying to use.
If you have an android phone, use StreetComplete
It turns this chore into a game!
Yes, there are so many things that can be added to OpenStreetMap and we would love more help! I would start by asking: what do you use OSM for? or, what would you like to see more of in OSM?
I am a frequent OSM contributor in Vancouver. Personally I like to find a niche and work on it for a few weeks before I lose interest and find something else to map. I use the iD editor on openstreetmap.org.
I also like to pull out my phone when I am in a new neighbourhood or shopping area to see if there is anything I can add with StreetComplete or Every Door.
There are so many possible ways to contribute to OSM. I don't think the map can every be complete.
The wiki is an important guide for learning how to map more features. wiki.openstreetmap.org
Another helpful way to contribute is to upload GPS-tagged through Mapillary.
There are tools like Osmose which help identify QA issues https://osmose.openstreetmap.fr
Hit me up if you have any questions!
Thanks! I'll start changing some stuff up locally. I tried StreetComplete, I'll check out Every Door. Do you use each one for a different purpose? From a quick look, EveryDoor looks like it's more for business info and streetcomplete for all the other quests?
I'll also look into Mapillary. I think I'm more interested in fixing up the business info and specific GPS tags because that's how I would usually use the maps, so this should give me lots to work with :)
One last question: I was a little unclear on what sources of information are ok to use. With some businesses, they don't post info on their door and instead do everything on their website. Others might only be updating their Google map's listings. Could I sit at home and update information that way, or are we supposed to avoid some/all of those
Sorry still learning to use Lemmy and missed your reply.
I use Every Door to add new businesses, add detailed tags related to a business, or add micro features like benches, garbage bins, etc
Using a company's website for their contact info and hours etc is definitely okay. Using another website like Google Maps or Facebook for that information is not. Some sources like municipality GIS data is acceptable if their licence has been cleared but I would check the wiki first.
Happy mapping!
You can go on openstreetmap.org, login and click edit at the top right. Then the in-browser id-editor will open and you can straighten out the building lines. There's even a feature to 'square' areas to make them have 90° angles
If you want to fix building lines, I think JOSM is the best tool. You do need a few hours to get acquainted with it.
If you want to contribute with points of interest, apps like StreetComplete are the way to go. The most active OSM community is on Discord, I think.