OpenStreetMap

OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a project that makes free maps of the world available to everyone. These maps can be used for all kinds of purposes without any restrictions, like exploring new places, creating travel plans, or building apps. The project began because many other maps that people think are free have rules that limit how they can be used. By providing unrestricted access to geographic data, OSM enables people to use maps in creative, productive, and unexpected ways.

OpenStreetMap is a great tool that allows you to use maps and data for free. However, two conditions must be followed. Firstly, you need to give proper credit to OpenStreetMap for any use of their maps or data. Secondly, if you make any corrections or improvements to the maps, you need to share them back with the project.

Fig. 2: Growth of OSM registered users over time

OpenStreetMap has experienced rapid growth over time due to its openness and availability of information and data. This is evident from Fig. 2, which shows the number of registered users over time. The graph displays an exponential increase in the number of users. This growth can be attributed to the fact that OpenStreetMap provides a valuable resource for many different types of users, including researchers, developers, and everyday people who need access to accurate and up-to-date geographic information. With the continued growth of OpenStreetMap, we can expect even more exciting developments and innovations in the future. More information about OSM and statistics about its use can be found at the WikiOSM Stats website.

OpenStreetMap is open, licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License (ODbL) by the OpenStreetMap Foundation (OSMF). You are free to copy, distribute, transmit and adapt OSM data, as credit is given to OpenStreetMap and its contributors. If data is altered or built upon, the result has to be distributed only under the same license (see Fig. 3). For more information access the following link: https://www.openstreetmap.org/copyright.

Fig. 3: OpenStreetMap License conditions

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