Enrich OSM maps with additional information
The word has spread that OpenStreetMap (OSM) offers high-quality data for many areas. Even established GPS manufacturers are now using this data source – at least for outdoor devices, where users require minute detail. This makes using the data provided by the OSM project for your own maps all the more desirable. Currently, only printed maps display sufficiently large areas at a high resolution with enough details for planning trips.
Another benefit is that you can modify the OpenStreetMap data yourself. If you need a specific cycling route or want to see the picnic areas on the maps, for example, you have two options. First, you can add the information directly to your project with the online editor or with programs like Merkaartor [1], Josm, or others. Second, tools such as Maperitive [2] let you generate maps in high resolution as image files, which you can then edit with Gimp or Inkscape.
The first method – that is, editing the OSM data – is preferred because it benefits the entire project. However, for very specific tasks, the second method is better and faster because you do not need to wait for the data to update on the server. On the other hand, you do need to re-enter your own changes each time you reload the database.
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

News
-
Plasma 6.3 Now Available
Plasma desktop v6.3 has a couple of pretty nifty tricks up its sleeve.
-
LibreOffice 25.2 Has Arrived
If you've been hoping for a release that offers more UI customizations, you're in for a treat.
-
TuxCare Has a Big AlmaLinux 9 Announcement in Store
TuxCare announced it has successfully completed a Security Technical Implementation Guide for AlmaLinux OS 9.
-
First Release Candidate for Linux Kernel 6.14 Now Available
Linus Torvalds has officially released the first release candidate for kernel 6.14 and it includes over 500,000 lines of modified code, making for a small release.
-
System76 Refreshes Meerkat Mini PC
If you're looking for a small form factor PC powered by Linux, System76 has exactly what you need in the Meerkat mini PC.
-
Gnome 48 Alpha Ready for Testing
The latest Gnome desktop alpha is now available with plenty of new features and improvements.
-
Wine 10 Includes Plenty to Excite Users
With its latest release, Wine has the usual crop of bug fixes and improvements, along with some exciting new features.
-
Linux Kernel 6.13 Offers Improvements for AMD/Apple Users
The latest Linux kernel is now available, and it includes plenty of improvements, especially for those who use AMD or Apple-based systems.
-
Gnome 48 Debuts New Audio Player
To date, the audio player found within the Gnome desktop has been meh at best, but with the upcoming release that all changes.
-
Plasma 6.3 Ready for Public Beta Testing
Plasma 6.3 will ship with KDE Gear 24.12.1 and KDE Frameworks 6.10, along with some new and exciting features.