Evaluating methods for downloading openstreetmap data

Abstract

Although QuickOSM and OSMDownloader both provide fast and easy tools to access and download OpenStreetMap data, QuickOSM is the more versatile of two, allowing a user to select specific data types and datasets. The interface in QuickOSM is easy to use compared to OSMDownloader and has options for selecting specific datasets and locations. Additionally, the interface in QuickOSM does not limit the user to a specific menu of options when selecting a dataset, instead allowing experienced users to customize the data query. Using QGIS and the QuickOSM plugin greatly enhances the accessibility of OpenStreetMap data. They can save considerable time by eliminating much of the post-processing needed when downloading data using other methods.