Mapping public transportation is an advanced activity in OpenStreetMap, and also one of the most impactful things an OpenStreetMapper can do. Trufi Association and Mobility Hub have joined forces to launch a free online public transport mapping course to make it easier to learn this skill. This new course holds the potential to revolutionize the way we plan, analyze, and shape transportation systems with community-centered solutions.
The virtual launch event took place on August 10, 2023, with notable speakers including Jesús Diaz and Alejandra Sierra of Mobility Hub, Colombia; Céline Jacquin of HOTOSM, Mexico; Bon Squid Baikas of Cocotra Michoacán, Mexico; and Luz Choque, Leonardo Gutíerrez, and Christoph Hanser from Trufi Association (Bolivia, Colombia, and Germany, respectively).
A video of the launch event (in Spanish) can be viewed below.
Empowered Mappers Strengthen Communities
Trufi recognizes that local communities hold invaluable insights into their own transportation needs. By equipping individuals with the skills to map and analyze transportation data, this course empowers citizens to actively participate in the transportation planning process.
When community-generated transport maps are combined with usage data, said Gutierrez, “Trufi can use the app usage patterns to generate feedback information for governments. We can use this information to create heat maps, that show high-demand or low-demand areas.”
The Power of a Global Network of Transport Mappers
As cities continue to grapple with the challenges of urbanization and increasing mobility demands, the ability to gather comprehensive and reliable transportation data becomes crucial. Trained mappers can provide insights into route patterns, travel times, safety concerns, and accessibility issues, enabling informed decision-making by local authorities and governments – or anyone with access to the data.
“The good thing,” said Jacquin, “is that since they are open data, you can download them and perform analyses.”
Fostering Collaboration and Innovation
The course promotes collaboration among various stakeholders, including universities, governments, and civil society. By creating a space for these entities to work together, the course facilitates the creation of holistic and community-driven transportation solutions.
“I encourage the participation of university students,” said Baikas. “It’s technical and professional growth that they’re putting into practice with mapping. They learn how to do various things, learn mapping, learn cartography, learn different software around this data. Not only with OpenStreetMap, but they also learn soft skills, management, coordination, interacting with civil organizations, professionals, and governments. That empowers young people.”
Coming Soon: English
An English version of the course is set to launch later this year has launched, broadening the reach of this initiative between Mobility Hub and Trufi. This expansion promises to unlock the potential of a diverse and dynamic network of transport mappers, further accelerating the positive impact on transportation planning worldwide.
Shaping the Future of Transportation
Transportation plays a pivotal role in our daily lives. The launch of this mapping course marks a significant step forward. By harnessing the power of data, collaboration, and citizen engagement, Trufi Association and Mobility Hub are empowering people shape transportation systems that are not only efficient and sustainable but also responsive to the unique needs and aspirations of their communities.
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