[Osmf-talk] Alternative Strategic Plan

[steveaOSM]

I don't wish for what I say here to be revolutionary, as I understand that achieving goals in our map project is not only highly worthy, but necessary for us to grow, as it simultaneously allows us to measure real progress.

However, I have always (in my 14 years of OSM) felt like "the map is never done."  In my mind, there will always be additional frontiers to map, more detail that can be added, new dimensions of data we might explore (indeed, a recent, decent 3D renderer has caused huge excitement as this literally new dimension of data we might and do add explodes ahead).  OK, so if "lacking addressing data" is community-identified as being an important "next" goal to achieve, that's great, let's roll up our sleeves and do it.  But "finishing" that (whatever that means) most certainly will not mean that the map is "done."  In my opinion.

The best trajectory for OSM to continue onto is the simultaneous achievement of important, sensible, "we can do this" goals, while we also leave open the amazing "blue sky" of "creative, productive, or unexpected" ways that mapping data can and will be used in the future.  One or the other stifles us, so, both is the sweet spot.

Yes, in some far-off future (decades), the community may reach a consensus that the map really IS "done," at which point, we become a community of maintainers, rather than be growth- and completeness-inspired.  At that point (and even now) it makes sense to consider some of what might emerge as blue-sky creative directions to fork off of OSM and become their own thing.