Vision

Introducing OpenOrthoMap: A New Approach to Organizing Geospatial Data

With OpenOrthoMap (OOM), I’m setting out to create something different in the world of geospatial software—a versatile tool focused not on hosting a massive repository of data, but on helping users organize and manage their own. Unlike OpenAerialMap (OAM) and OpenStreetMap (OSM), which provide comprehensive repositories of open data, OpenOrthoMap’s mission is simpler: to be a lightweight, deployable solution for organizing geospatial data wherever it’s needed.

How OpenOrthoMap Stands Out

While both OAM and OSM are critical resources, they revolve around the centralization of open data. OpenOrthoMap, on the other hand, is designed to work with a range of data types, whether open, proprietary, or private. The data available on the OpenOrthoMap server is a proof-of-concept rather than a complete data library. The goal is to show OOM’s capability as a tool rather than trying to replicate the vast repositories these projects offer.

A Flexible, Lightweight Solution

OpenOrthoMap can be hosted where it’s most useful—whether in the cloud, on a private server, or even on a Raspberry Pi in remote locations. This flexibility makes it ideal for users who work with sensitive or proprietary geospatial data that doesn’t need to be part of a public database. Think of OOM as an adaptable toolkit for organizing and managing data that’s uniquely yours.

Short-Term Milestones

In these early stages, here’s what I’m focused on achieving:

  1. Launching a cloud version capable of accepting uploads.
  2. Creating clear, user-friendly documentation for setting up your own instance.
  3. Providing a guide and demo for deploying OpenOrthoMap on a Raspberry Pi, showing its potential for field applications.

A Peek at the Future of OOM

As OpenOrthoMap continues to grow, I’ll be sharing more about its architecture and functionality. A central part of my vision is minimizing reliance on traditional databases; for instance, the initial version uses a tool to build an index of static files, keeping the system simple and easy to deploy.

Stay tuned for updates on OpenOrthoMap as we build a solution designed to meet the unique challenges of organizing and managing geospatial data on your terms.