Uncovering the Value of Mapping on OpenStreetMaps
In our last two blogs, “The Monetization of Mapping and Cartographer-Creators” & “Beyond OpenStreetMap,” we discussed the idea of cartographers as creators, and he issues which we see holding back OSM. And in the Maps 101 series, we made efforts to introduce those new to the field, to some of the basics of maps, map-making, and cartography.
The reason behind approaching both ends of the spectrum, the mapping pro and the novice, is to encourage more people to look at this space and to invite the pros to share more about their work with the broader public.
To that end, we wanted to work on something for the pro-mappers last week. In an internal team call while discussing the value of maps, map-data and maps as content, we went down a rabbit hole of discussing the economic value of map-data contributions. One thing led to another, and we decided that a tool that enables OSM users to calculate the economic value of their contributions would be an excellent way to demonstrate the range of efforts that go into making a map.
This blog, therefore, is an explanation of what this tool is, why we built it, and how it works. Let’s dive in.
What is the OSM Impact Calculator?
The OSM Impact Calculator enables users to quantify the economic impact of their mapping contributions in their local context. The tool is inspired from Pascal Neis’s work on HDYC.
Much like HDYC the calculator requires your OSM username to get started. It then asks for your mapping locale, which aids in adjusting currency and costs relevant to their region, providing a comparative metric. You can select between two valuation methods,
- Wages based or Time Spent: This approach estimates the total value of your edits based on the national median wage and total hours spent mapping. It emphasizes the extent of a your efforts but does not capture the diversity or actual impact of the work. This method is suitable if you wish to understand the time-equivalent monetary value of your mapping contributions.
- Edits based or Number of Edits: Alternatively, this method calculates a standard Value Per Edit using market values of map data, guided by a Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) system. This provides a market value estimate of your efforts but does not account for variations in the individual contribution value. It’s ideal for users who are interested in a market-based assessment of their contributions.
Based on your inputs we provide an estimated value of your contributions and also some additional context. Take the example of NLBRT, (shoutout to them for helping us build and test this out!). This output, offers insight into the tangible impact of NLBRT’s mapping efforts.
Note: Estimates between these two methods of valuation might vary widely. This variance is due to factors such as location-specific economic conditions, PPP adjustments, and the inherently diverse nature of map-data contributions.
The Need for the OSM Impact Calculator
Mapping contributions to platforms like OpenStreetMap (OSM) hold an intrinsic value that is challenging, if not impossible, to quantify with complete accuracy. The diverse and extensive nature of these contributions, each carrying its unique significance, makes any attempt at precise valuation a complex endeavor. Nevertheless, it’s essential to acknowledge that while no tool can retroactively estimate the exact value of the data contributed by mappers, we can still provide distant estimates that offer some insight into their immense value.
Despite these challenges, the OSM Impact Calculator is a vital tool for two primary reasons.
Firstly, it gives mappers a tangible sense of recognition. By providing an economic valuation of their efforts, the tool helps mappers see a more concrete reflection of their contributions. This fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of their work’s impact, not just as a hobby or voluntary activity but as a significant investment of time and expertise.
Secondly, the calculator addresses a notable gap in the mapping ecosystem. It brings to light the economic significance of voluntary contributions, which often get overshadowed by larger, commercial mapping ventures or by narratives built around open-source movements which may often gloss over the economic situations of contributors.
Integrating these elements into the narrative of the OSM community, the calculator serves as an encouragement for both current and potential mappers. It underscores that their contributions are not only valuable but also impactful. This tool is more than just a means for valuation; it’s a beacon of recognition and appreciation. It aims to foster a more vibrant and engaged mapping community, where every contribution is seen, valued, and understood comprehensively.
At Proto, we’re particularly proud of developing the OSM Impact Calculator. This initiative aligns seamlessly with our goals and mission: to empower and uplift the individuals behind the maps. By providing this tool, we’re taking a step towards a future where the efforts of every mapper are acknowledged and celebrated, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that is the cornerstone of user-generated mapping.
Note: The OSM Impact calculator is built on the years of work done by the OSM community, we’d like to formally acknowledge their work and support in making this tool possible. © OpenStreetMap contributors & © HDYC by Pascal Neis
Join us on this mission,
You can follow us on twitter & instagram, and if you wanna get started on proto; join our online onboarding events
We also hang out on group chat here, feel free to drop by!
See you soon and Happy Mapping !
