Determinants of OpenStreetMap Data Quality: The Case of Poland

Keywords: OpenStreetMap, Poland, Data Quality, Open Data
Abstract Type: Poster Abstract

Abstract

The aim of the article is to assess the spatial variability of OpenStreetMap (OSM) data quality. Based on the number of edits for individual objects, the date of the last edit, and the number of involved editors, the completeness and dynamics of OSM object edits across space will be determined. Additionally, the partially spatial variation in the consistency of object labeling between OSM and the official register (BDOT10k) will be identified. We hypothesize that the potential for using OSM is not only spatially variable but also geographically conditioned. The study verifies factors that explain the spatial variability in OSM usage, including urbanization (urban-rural layout) and the marginalization of areas affected by digital exclusion (both in terms of competencies and infrastructure). The results from the quantitative analysis are compared with those from a qualitative study, which includes in-depth interviews with the most experienced Polish OSM editors. The results of this mixed-method research identify the limitations of OSM potential applications in geographical studies.