Comments on: Open-source project treads on Google Maps turf

Volunteers with GPS devices aim to map the planet and loosen the grip of government on geographic data.

[TV James]

Good for them.

It will lead to better and more accurate programs.

I spent $350 on a GPS device well-reviewed by CNET, only to have Magellan discontinue sales of the device three months later. Not to mention that the map included with the device was/is horrendously outdated with no updates available from the website.

Maybe this will lead to better and more accurate maps for everyone.

[chuck_whealton]

Re: Good for them...

I agree it's great that we may actually get some competition!

Charles R. Whealton
Charles Whealton @ pleasedontspam.com

[gggg sssss]

I would contribute

Of course the US model is the best - since its citizens have already paid for it, let them have the right to use it. Even better, the US allows anybody in the world to use their stuff.

[sreynard]

Government control the best?

What happens when the government decides that the data is sensitive to national security or for some other reason decide to no longer supply it? Then it isn't available at any price. For example, see the DAFIF which was pulled from the internet last month. At least with commercial products we can get the data if we are willing to pay enough for it.

[retrok]

Check this out too

There is a similar project ongoing in Southeast Asia.

See http://www.malsingmaps.com/