Two new web mapping applications demonstrate how open geodata can be used for spatial analysis and planning. Both platforms are based on OpenStreetMap (OSM) data and on OGD1, but have different aims and take different analytical and collaborative approaches.
VivaMap: Quality-of-life indicators
VivaMap is an analytical geodata platform focussed on Switzerland. It combines OSM’s data on POIs2 and buildings with various open official datasets, for example on noise, landcover, and public transport service quality.
- Function: The platform offers spatial indicators to assess the quality of life in neighborhoods (e.g., accessibility to green spaces or public transportation connections). Users can choose their own relative weighting of the individual input data sets and thus create a customised quality-of-life indicator for themselves. Besides, the application offers per-canton and per-agglomeration statistics of all input datasets.
- Application: An integrated feature allows users to directly compare different administrative units or areas to highlight differences in infrastructure.
UrbanistMap: Urban development projects
UrbanistMap is designed as a collaborative web GIS application for capturing and visualising urban development projects and infrastructure initiatives worldwide.
- Function: The platform lets the community geolocate development projects and infrastructure initiatives (for example construction of cycle paths, green spaces, buildings, railroad infrastructure, etc.) by creating geodata in a decentralised manner.
- Application: The community-contributed construction sites and plans are displayed directly on the map and made publicly accessible, for example here. Users can select the type of projects to be shown and also filter by planning status and more.
