[Osmf-talk] Tiles

[steveaOSM]

OSM is a data grid, much like the power grid in many senses.  It greatly benefits from redundancy built up as trustable networks of services on demand.  I imagine a world where there is "especially strong demand for geocoding lookup services" (or whatever) and lo, "some folks in Germany" (or where ever) have spare cycles to puff up that cloud.  Infinity other possibilities abound.  We do this demand-load balancing in our power networks.  Sometimes on schedules or including somewhat-expected availability.  Balances can be achieved.

It is and can be asking for money, that is true.  It can also be a "corporate sponsorship" thing, which we have.  It can also be "we can (and will) host those tiles for a while," third....  Balances can be achieved.

If somebody wants to host their subtle network watermark to serve me tiles on demand — and OSM works better because of it! — that is our ecosystem at work.  I nod my head.  The gears mesh, and spin faster.