[Talk-ca] Accidentally overwriting existing data: Merge layer vs merge selection

[Samuel Longiaru]

Good morning everyone,

I've been following the discussion regarding the unfortunate situation
with the data in Aylmer, QC.  My sympathies to both Jonathan and the
importer.  Sounds like this was a inadvertent accident.  I have to say
though, I have caught myself nearly doing the same thing several times
as a result of the merge layer vs. merge selection tools in JOSM.  I'd
really like to see them modified somehow.

My import procedure is to select a CanVec feature or a class of
features, compare them with the existing OSM data, and where
appropriate, merge that selection down onto the OSM layer and delete it
from the CanVec layer.  For this, of course I'm using the merge
selection tool.  On several occasions, however, despite being aware of
the fact that I have wasted hours as a result and therefore trying to be
extra careful, I have inadvertently hit the adjacent merge layer tool
instead.   My only immediate indication that I have done this is that my
little CPU load monitor pegs out at 100% for a long period of time.
Ultimately the CanVec layer disappears from the layers list and I know
I'm screwed.  There's no undoing that.  Throw it out and start again.

Admittedly, there are lots of places to catch the error before
uploading.  The CanVec layer disappears, the Validator should throw
errors like crazy, but nonetheless, it is a subtle error with
significant consequences.  There is a steep learning curve both in
learning to use JOSM and in making the jump to importing data.  I feel
as though I've only  just started up that hill myself.  I certainly see
how someone could inadvertently overwrite a bunch of data as a result.

Anyway, I'm sure this is not the place to make a suggestion to the
developers, so if someone could direct me to a more appropriate forum,
I'd appreciate it.  I'd be happy just to be able to turn off merge
layers in my copy of JOSM!

Thanks,

Sam L.
Kamloops, BC
   

   
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