Hacker Timesnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Out of curiosity, what type of feature are often left to improve?

I've been mapping my area as there was quite some drastic changes to my local park, but aside form that and the occasional post box I struggle to find meaningful edits.

Granted I live in London so it's fairly populous.



You might know this already but the app (Android only I believe) StreetComplete (https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/StreetComplete) can be used as a low-effort way to fulfill minor improvement quests in your area.


I’m focusing on a few elements to get started (other than a few old paths and trails that were not mapped):

- street lighting (helpful for people trying to make global maps of safer streets for walking at night)

- small features: benches, trash bins, dog waste disposal bins

- stores and shops with as much information as possible (opening hours, contact information, etc.)

Once I’ve finished those (there’s a lot left to do, so I expect it to take a few months), I’m not sure what I’ll do next.


If you are looking to contribute meaningful edits beyond your local area, the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Tasking Manager always has things to do that can help folks working in areas affected by natural disasters: https://tasks.hotosm.org/contribute


In my area at least, I've found that even where the road networks are complete there are usually a lot of things that can be done to aid navigation. Some examples:

Walking: Tag roads for sidewalks, add footpaths and crosswalks.

Cycling: Tag roads for bike lanes, add bike paths.

Driving: Tag roads for turn lanes, and tag intersections for turn restrictions.

And of course POIs are always missing or need updating or additional info.


Out of curiosity, what type of feature are often left to improve?

I do a lot of geodata analysis where building footprints are important and there are a ton of buildings missing once you get outside the main city centers. Even just 15 minute drive into the suburbs from where I live and you go from every building mapped to less than 20% of buildings mapped.


There is an app for you :)

StreetComplete will suggest things around you that needs to be completed. Perfect for getting started.


I've added a couple of (non-clinical) buildings to my local hospital in London. I've also added some department locations. Tempted to say that counts as meaningful but the low-tech solution of good signage is, IMO, the best way to help people get around the place.




Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: