How TomTom is Empowering Mappers and Improving Lives Through OpenStreetMap
12-07, 11:00–11:30 (America/Belem), Auditório
Language: English

TomTom's unwavering dedication to open data and collaborative mapping is vividly demonstrated through our strong, ongoing partnership with OpenStreetMap (OSM). This partnership goes far beyond a simple collaboration; it embodies a shared vision that deeply resonates with local communities, particularly in the diverse and dynamic regions of Latin America (LATAM). At the heart of this partnership lies our Community and Partnerships program, meticulously designed to empower OSM contributors and local chapters. By providing them with the essential tools, resources, and targeted challenges, we aim to enhance the quality and accuracy of their local maps, ensuring they reflect the unique characteristics and needs of the communities they represent.

The partnership between TomTom and OSM is built on a foundation of mutual respect and a shared commitment to improving mapping data on a global scale. By leveraging TomTom's extensive expertise in mapping and navigation, we strive to significantly elevate the accuracy and completeness of various features within OSM. These enhancements not only improve the visual display and routing capabilities of the maps but also greatly enhance the overall navigation experience for millions of users worldwide. The impact of our collaboration is particularly profound in the LATAM region, where the intricate blend of geographic diversity and cultural richness necessitates a deep understanding of local knowledge. This local insight is crucial for addressing the unique challenges posed by the diverse landscapes and vibrant communities in LATAM.

One of the most rewarding aspects of our partnership with OSM is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the quality of maps in LATAM. Through a series of targeted projects and initiatives, we have been able to directly contribute to the improvement of mapping data in this region, making the maps more accurate, detailed, and useful for both locals and visitors alike. In this presentation, we will dive into the specifics of these collaborative efforts, highlighting the successful projects that have had a significant impact on the quality of maps in LATAM. We will also share valuable insights into the challenges we have faced along the way, the lessons we have learned, and how these experiences have shaped our approach to future projects and plans.

The collaboration between TomTom and OSM is driven by a shared belief in the power of community-driven mapping. We recognize that the most accurate and useful maps are those that are created by the people who know the areas best—the local communities. This belief in the importance of local knowledge and community involvement is at the core of our partnership with OSM. It is not just about improving maps; it is about fostering a global community that values accuracy, accessibility, and the open sharing of information.

As we look to the future, our goals are centered on continuing to support and grow this vibrant community of OSM contributors. We are committed to providing ongoing support and resources to ensure that the OSM community continues to thrive and expand. This includes offering new tools and technologies, creating more opportunities for collaboration, and encouraging the exchange of knowledge and ideas among contributors. Our aim is to empower the OSM community to continue making valuable contributions to the global mapping landscape, ensuring that maps remain accurate, up-to-date, and reflective of the ever-changing world we live in.

In addition to supporting the existing OSM community, we are also focused on expanding the reach of community-driven mapping to new regions, countries and communities that may not yet be fully represented on the map. By bringing more voices into the conversation and encouraging participation from a diverse range of contributors, we hope to create a more inclusive and comprehensive mapping platform that benefits everyone.

Ultimately, our partnership with OSM is about more than just maps; it is about making routing, walking, navigating, and exploring the world a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone who is using the map. Whether it's helping a traveler find their way in an unfamiliar city, enabling a local business to be discovered by new customers, or supporting a community's efforts to map their own surroundings, or being part of a sustainability projects, the work we do with OSM has a real and lasting impact on people's lives.

Through our ongoing efforts, we are committed to ensuring that the maps we create together are not only accurate and reliable but also accessible to all. By continuing to work hand in hand with the OSM community, we are confident that we can achieve our shared vision of a world where everyone has access to the information they need to navigate their world with confidence and ease. Our collaboration with OSM is a testament to the power of partnership and the incredible things that can be achieved when we work together toward a common goal.

Salim Baidoun is a seasoned engineering professional with extensive experience in the field of Community Engagement and Mapping. Holding an engineering degree in Industrial and Engineering Management, he has built a distinguished career over 2 decades, contributing to various large-scale projects across multiple regions. Baidoun is recognized for his leadership and technical expertise, particularly in managing complex projects from inception to completion. His career is marked by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability in engineering practices, making him a respected figure in the mapping and navigation industry.