Talk:Use OpenStreetMap

Discuss Use OpenStreetMap

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Relating to Using OpenStreetMap

We have a page Using OpenStreetMap which is obviously a very similar title. I notice this page links to that, but what is the intended relationship? Is there a scope distinction of the two pages? Or is this a design, which is intended to eventually replace that page? (I would be in favour) -- Harry Wood (talk) 16:39, 25 May 2014 (UTC)

The two sites serve navigation related to the same use-case, but in different ways. Use OpenStreetMap is a commented list of links, Using OpenStreetMap is a verbous overview. I call them navigation page and introductory page, respectively, see my proposal for a navigation concept. Navigation pages are short to read and overview, while introductory pages serve more explanation. Both types have their right to exist, in my opinion, because they fullfill different needs. And, again, they're part of the navigation, not basic content pages. Thus it's not duplicated content, it's different navigation paths to the same content. Best wishes --Cantho (talk) 11:15, 28 May 2014 (UTC)

However, I agree that the two similar names are confusing and one could rename one or both of them. --Cantho (talk) 16:53, 31 May 2014 (UTC)

Proposed facelift

I would like to propose a facelift.

First, this should fix a couple of dead links:

• static map image marked as dated on the wiki page
• The service for GPS Maps From OSM Data is defunct (as opposed to the Garmin map services)
• The Export is advertised for a now defunct Mapquest service. Plus export of images, and this is defunct as well.

Second, new section Get Data. Geo data is the main purpose of OpenStreetMap, and information how to obtain is was missing. In addtion, the section about GIS software fits well into this topic.

Third, add a link to the usage policies in the legal section. Although not legally binding, this is information how to behave that is often asked for.

Fourth, drop the links to the outdated software lists:

• Blackberry OS and maybe even Windows Phone does not look up-to-date.
• software for your desktop computer starts with a bunch of programs of 2010 or 2013 and so on. Maybe that list could be improved by being sorted by last version date.

I'll forward a link to this to the mailing list to get a broader base for discussion.

--drolbr