Overture Maps Foundation, supported by Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Meta, has rolled out its first batch of open map datasets. This project targets the monopolistic grip of Google in the online mapping sector by offering open and interoperable map data alternatives.
The Foundation’s Mission
Founded in December 2022 under the umbrella of the Linux Foundation, the Overture Maps Foundation focuses on crafting open-source and compatible map data. After gradually rolling out datasets and unveiling the initial beta in April, the foundation has released four core datasets covering buildings, places, administrative divisions, and basic layers.
The latest datasets feature an array of map layers, including 2.3 billion building footprints worldwide, 54 million points of interest, administrative boundaries, and geological features. While the transportation dataset remains in beta, an alpha version of a new address dataset encompasses 200 million addresses across 14 nations.
Coordination and Data Sources
The steering committee, which comprises Microsoft, AWS, Meta, and TomTom, has contributions from entities such as Esri, Hyundai, Niantic, and TripAdvisor. Although Google is not part of the initiative, the foundation merges various open datasets from projects like OpenStreetMap and governmental sources, along with proprietary data from participating corporations.
Integrating multiple datasets presents complexities resolved through a method called conflation, which harmonizes differences in naming, spelling, and geographic positions to ensure data integrity. The foundation’s executive director, Marc Prioleau, notes the difficulties involved in this conflation process.
Contributions from Corporate Members
Corporate entities contribute their proprietary data to the initiative. Meta, for instance, has provided its database of Facebook places. According to Prioleau, despite Meta’s competitive edge in user-generated content, sharing basic location information enhances the collective effort.
Mapping providers and application developers can utilize Overture’s open data for purposes ranging from visual map creation to spatial analysis. The data adheres to a documented schema, enabling developers to integrate it consistently. Developers can link supplementary spatial data to base map entities using unique identifiers to streamline data attachment.
Utilization and Industry Impact
Use cases powered by this data span local business discovery, insurance, and mapping. Prioleau anticipates additional applications, from automotive to ride-sharing services. Major Overture members such as Meta, Microsoft, Esri, and TomTom are already integrating these datasets into their platforms.
Jan Erik Solem, the chair of the Overture steering committee and Director of Maps at Meta, emphasizes that this release is only the beginning. Future developments will further diversify map products, enhancing a wide range of services and innovations. Meta is already employing these datasets for various applications within its ecosystem.
Alongside the July release, an alpha version of an Address theme featuring data from 14 countries and upwards of 200 million addresses was introduced. Feedback will refine its schema to support a global array of address data. Overture is also integrating visualization tools to simplify dataset exploration and downloading.
The Global Entity Reference System (GERS) allows companies to attach external data to the base map. Unique GERS IDs enable consistent data linkage, facilitating efficient integration.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 3:31 pm CET
