[OSM-newbies] Economizing OSM edits

[Joe Early]

Hello,

I have wondered if there is any preference with OSM on economizing on
data size.  Should we always try to reuse any bounding roads when
entering 'landuse' areas for example?  Or using fewer points to map a
curved road?

I note that potlatch's tidy command adds points to (most) roundabouts
but removes them from open ways.  I see 'landuse' areas both drawn
independently of any other ways and other times not.  In North American
cities the sidewalk adjoining a street is mapped as a separate way.  In
Europe, we seem to assume urban streets all have footpaths.

>From a contributors perspective the only issue I have is the difficulty
working with shared segments. With the current crop of tools this ranges
from tedious to impossible.  I like to know if there is a reason for
making the effort.  For that matter is there any issues with entering
stuff and later tweaking as opposed to putting it all in, first time?

So; Is there any reasons to reduce and recycle versus a going for a fat
OSM? :*)

Joe e