On August 20, 2004, Steve Coast, then a physics student at University College London, introduced his groundbreaking idea for OpenStreetMap (OSM) during a presentation at EuroFOO. In this talk, Coast shared his vision for a collaborative, editable map of the world, challenging the status quo of inaccessible and non-editable mapping data.

Coast highlighted the limitations of existing map data, such as that from the Ordnance Survey in the UK, which was neither freely available nor editable. He proposed an ambitious alternative: a free, open-source map that anyone could edit, similar to Wikipedia. This idea stemmed from his personal experiments with mapping, where he used a USB GPS receiver, an old laptop, and GPS units to create maps of London.

Coast demonstrated the potential of OpenStreetMap by showing the WAAG map of Amsterdam (pictured left), created by volunteers with GPS devices. He envisioned a platform where multiple users could contribute and edit data, using OpenGIS SQL databases and custom trace and editing software. Despite challenges such as GPS accuracy and the complexity of display software, Coast believed in the feasibility and necessity of OSM.

During the presentation, attendees discussed the potential sources of GPS data, like courier companies, and the possibility of enhancing GPS accuracy through differential GPS technology. Coast’s vision was to democratize cartography, making mapping accessible to everyone and allowing for more temporally accurate and detailed maps.

Steve Coast’s presentation at EuroFOO marked a pivotal moment in the history of cartography, laying the foundation for what would become a global movement. Today, OpenStreetMap is a testament to the power of collaborative innovation, driven by the contributions of millions of volunteers worldwide.

On August 22, 2006, the OpenStreetMap Foundation was officially established with the mission to encourage the growth, development, and distribution of free geospatial data. The Foundation plays a critical role in maintaining and advancing the OpenStreetMap (OSM) project, ensuring that this valuable resource remains accessible to all.

The Foundation’s primary objectives include:

• Keeping OpenStreetMap’s servers running: Ensuring the infrastructure supporting OSM is robust and reliable.
• Influencing the future direction of the project: Guiding OSM’s development to meet the evolving needs of its community.
• Supporting volunteer working groups: Providing resources and support to the dedicated volunteers who drive the project forward.
• Offering discounts to OSM events: Encouraging community engagement by making events more accessible to members.
• Showing support for OpenStreetMap: Building a strong, supportive community around the project.

Becoming a member of the OpenStreetMap Foundation allows individuals to contribute to the project’s sustainability and influence its future. Learn more about membership and show your support at supporting.openstreetmap.org.

The establishment of the Foundation marked a significant milestone in the history of OpenStreetMap, solidifying its commitment to providing free, editable map data to people around the world.

On January 19, 2023, OpenStreetMap (OSM) celebrated an impressive milestone by reaching 10 million registered users. This achievement reflects the tremendous growth and global reach of the OSM community, showcasing the widespread commitment to maintaining a free, editable map of the world.

There are countless contributors to OpenStreetMap, each playing a vital role in its success. These individuals survey their neighborhoods with GPS and notepads, or trace over licensed satellite imagery, to provide the most complete, current, and accurate data possible. Additionally, some publishers have allowed their data to be included in OSM, further enriching the platform. It is impossible to adequately acknowledge all these contributors, but their collective efforts are what make OpenStreetMap an invaluable resource for millions around the globe.