Geospatial future is open: Lessons learnt from applications based on open data

Abstract

Thirty five years ahead of the beginning of Open Data initiative, it is appropriate to evaluate the added value of such data and to reflect on how these can be exploited according to citizens’ needs. This paper illustrates some first findings and lessons learnt during a research conducted on the use and re-use of geospatial Open Data by means of Virtual Hubs-an innovative method for brokering of geo-spatial information. Modern applications (APPs) related to topography, mapping of land use but also to historic maps and data of daily importance (including health facilities) are here examined so as to evaluate their thematic field of interest, the requirements of the end-users and the potential added value of Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) in such context. The study finally evaluates the scale of impact and the level of awareness of developers towards a larger policy framework or their APPs.