[OSM-talk] How to tag dead-ends and how to distinguish them from incomplete ways

[Blaž Lorger]

On Sunday 27 September 2009 02:38:31 Dave F. wrote:
> You see, this is where I get /really /confused
> 
> I see no reference to 'todo' or 'continue' in the general OSM wiki.
> In the Groundtruth wiki page they're highlighted red, saying there there
> no reference page.
> 
> I'm repeatedly told "don't tag for the renderers"
> 
> Yet it appears in this case the renderers are telling the mappers what
> to do.
> The previous post implies these tags will only work in Groundtruth renders.
> 
> What am I not understanding?
> 
> At the moment it looks like the left hand is deliberately not
> telling the right what is going on.
> 
> I fully support the endeavours of OSM but the hierarchical stature of it
> leaves me baffled at the moment.
> 
> Oh, & Liz, if you're reading. please don't post to tell me some of the
> 'regulars' have anarchy symbols on the blog page as if that some how
> makes it all OK.

It can hardly be called tagging for the renderer. No existing tag was misused 
to get desired result. Tagging schema and renderer style were extended to 
provide new functionality. That is what O in OSM stands for  :-)
Of course most/all renderers will support any tag. It is only a question of 
style used. I would not hold a breath while waiting for mainstream renderer 
setups to support "way not finished" tags, but you can always do it yourself.

Using todo tag is solution for existing problem and and a case study to see 
how it works out and whether is it useful. But you are right, making formal 
entry in wiki is overdue. I'll try to take some time to write a proposal.

  Blaz