Open Maps Caucasus: A JumpStart International Mapping Initiative

Finding your way around Georgia can be a tricky affair. With the Open Maps Caucasus: A JumpStart International Mapping Initiative, it is now a lot easier.

Content is from the site's 2010 archived pages and other outside sources.

Before 2010, only maps available were obsolete Soviet maps, expensive collector maps or nearly-useless outdated tourist maps of the major cities. There are no maps available of the bus routes in the capital city. Nor were there any maps of the new highways. Even on the internet there were no comprehensive maps of the region.

When Open Maps’ community-based, open-source map of Georgia is completed in late August 2010, it will be the first comprehensive, open-source map of the country. We feel is will be a breakthrew for mapping this area.

FYI: One of our mappers happens to be also an experienced Saleforce expert who works for a company that has a team who helps businesses and organizations to implement the cloud based Salesforce platforms, train their organizations/ company workers to use Salesforce, as well as do specialized Salesforce customization when some appropriate customizations are necessary. If you are not familiar with Salesforce, it is amazing cloud computing and social enterprise software-as-a-service that organizations and businesses have embraced enthusiastically since its technology is used to organize, automate, and synchronize sales, marketing, customer service, and technical support for everyone. We feel that someone with this type of technical background will be especially helpful.

Open Maps Caucasus is a ..

... JumpStart International mapping initiative dedicated to the creation of open geographic data and promoting its use by building capacity in the Caucasus for visualizing information geographically. Our community-based mapping model generates valuable data and sustainable impact by training volunteers and engaging people around open content and ways to use it to develop civil society, business, good governance, and above all, means of expression.

History of JumpStart International

JumpStart International began in 2003 with one American in Iraq who believed he could make a difference through engaging Iraqis in rebuilding the country. Within months, Sean O’Sullivan was working with 3,500 Iraqis to rebuild homes and offices. JumpStart was born and quickly developed a reputation for local empowerment and efficient operations that continues today.

In 2006, JumpStart brought its approach of engaging the local community through income-generating clearance and rebuilding projects to Gaza. JumpStart partnered with the Community College of Applied Science and Technology in Gaza to support development of the Gaza Polytechnic Institute, enabling new capacity for technology education. By 2008, JumpStart programs were engaging Jordanian and other youth from the region in an Amman-based project to build vocational skills.

JumpStart’s economic development and skill development opportunities in under-resourced communities expanded to include community mapping in 2008, when we began mobilizing and training teams to map the West Bank, and in 2009, Gaza, creating the first-ever public domain geographic data set for Palestine. Also in 2009, JumpStart supported mapping of Kibera, a community of one million people living in a slum of Nairobi, Kenya. Of note, street mapping has a strong nexus to JumpStart with its founder, Sean O’Sullivan, having been the first to develop computer-based street mapping while a college student in the mid-80s and building his company, MapInfo, into one of the leaders of this important market in the early 90s.

The Results of JumpStart’s Efforts

JumpStart’s efforts to engage communities in creating GPS street mapping data revealed we were not only building new technical capacity in data collection and maintenance, but also new social capital through connecting a community around identifying its assets. In addition, we realized for the local community to be empowered to leverage the data to fulfill its potential as a tool for strengthening NGOs and businesses, additional investment was needed beyond data collection. JumpStart theorized that continued investment in skill-development, together with support for a lasting entity, would infuse local mapping participants with the expertise and infrastructure needed to form a sustainable partner able to provide leading-edge geodata consulting to local NGOs, businesses and government entities, and foster a network of social entrepreneurs invested in promoting open access to information.

With this insight, JumpStart initiated a mapping project in the Shida Kartli region of the Republic of Georgia in September, 2009. The group engaged in mapping Shida Kartli coalesced into Open Maps Caucasus, a JumpStart International mapping initiative.

OMC-JumpStart is dedicated to the creation and effective use of open geographic data, and promotes open exchange of knowledge in general. JumpStart is currently incubating this new organization, supporting its ultimate independent sustainability with financial investment and organizational development and technical expertise with staff on-site, in the interest of building sustainable capacity for collecting and maintaining open data, and generating a hub of social entrepreneurs capitalizing on ways the latest mapping and other technologies enhance development.

JumpStart's Philosphy

JumpStart believes that by pairing investments in local leadership with skill-building and intentional networking, with open access to information as a rallying principle, we are piloting an entrepreneurial model for sustainable development that will add value to the emerging civil society community of Georgia, and beyond. To learn more about JumpStart International, visit: JumpStartInternational.org.

With countless digital and tangible resources at hand, you can get involved and become a member of the OMC community in a number of different ways.

 


 

Open Maps Caucasus: More Background

Open Maps Caucasus (OMC) is an innovative initiative under the aegis of JumpStart International, aimed at creating open-source geographic data for the Caucasus region, particularly Georgia. This project addresses a critical gap in accurate, accessible maps, which were previously either outdated or incomplete. OMC leverages a community-based model to engage local volunteers in the mapping process, ensuring both data accuracy and community empowerment.

Background and History

JumpStart International was founded in 2003 by Sean O'Sullivan in Iraq, with the mission to engage locals in rebuilding efforts. Initially focused on infrastructure projects, JumpStart quickly expanded its scope to include community mapping. This transition was fueled by the realization that accurate geographic data could empower communities and enhance various development projects. The first major mapping projects were undertaken in the West Bank, Gaza, and Kibera, Nairobi, establishing a strong foundation for future initiatives.

In 2009, JumpStart brought its mapping expertise to the Shida Kartli region of Georgia, leading to the formation of Open Maps Caucasus. The primary goal was to create the first comprehensive, open-source map of Georgia, addressing the lack of reliable geographic data which hindered navigation and planning efforts.

Mission and Objectives

OMC is dedicated to the creation and effective use of open geographic data. The initiative promotes the open exchange of knowledge and builds capacity in the Caucasus for visualizing information geographically. By engaging local volunteers in data collection, OMC fosters community ownership and empowerment, ensuring that the maps are accurate and reflective of local realities. This participatory approach not only generates valuable data but also builds technical skills and social networks within the community.

Impact and Achievements

Since its inception, OMC has made significant strides in improving the accessibility and quality of geographic information in Georgia. The creation of a comprehensive map has facilitated better navigation for both locals and visitors. Additionally, the data provided by OMC has been instrumental for NGOs, businesses, and government agencies, aiding in various development projects.

One of the notable achievements of OMC is its commitment to transparency and open access. By making the maps open-source, OMC ensures that the information is available to everyone, promoting a culture of open access and collaboration. This has been particularly beneficial for civil society organizations, enabling them to leverage geographic data for advocacy, planning, and implementation of various projects.

Cultural and Social Significance

OMC's work extends beyond the creation of maps. It plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of open data and civic engagement in the Caucasus region. The community-based mapping model used by OMC not only enhances the quality of the data collected but also strengthens the social fabric of the community. By involving local communities in the mapping process, OMC helps build a sense of collective ownership and responsibility.

The maps created by OMC serve as instruments of social change. They provide a platform for communities to document and share their local knowledge, contributing to a more inclusive and accurate representation of the region. This aspect of OMC's work aligns with JumpStart International's broader goals of empowering communities through skill-building and open access to information.

Press and Media Coverage

Open Maps Caucasus has garnered attention from various media outlets and academic institutions. Articles and reviews have highlighted the innovative approach of OMC and its significant contributions to the region. OC Media, for instance, has discussed the broader implications of OMC's work in regional development and civic engagement. Academic publications have also examined the impact of OMC's open data initiatives on social and economic movements in the Caucasus.

Audience and Reception

OMC's audience includes local residents, NGOs, businesses, government agencies, and international organizations. The initiative has received positive feedback for its inclusive approach and the quality of the data it provides. The engagement of local communities in the mapping process has been particularly well-received, as it ensures that the maps are accurate and reflective of on-ground realities.

Known For

Open Maps Caucasus is known for its pioneering work in creating the first comprehensive, open-source map of Georgia. The initiative is also recognized for its community-based approach to data collection, which involves local volunteers and fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment. OMC's commitment to transparency and open access has set a benchmark for similar projects in other regions.

Insights and Examples

One notable example of OMC's impact is its work in mapping the bus routes in Tbilisi. Before OMC, there were no accurate maps of the city's public transportation network, making it challenging for residents and visitors to navigate the city. The creation of detailed bus route maps has significantly improved the accessibility and usability of public transportation in Tbilisi.

Another example is OMC's collaboration with local NGOs and government agencies to provide critical geographic data for various development projects. This collaboration has enabled more informed decision-making and planning, contributing to the overall development and well-being of the region.

 

Open Maps Caucasus stands out as a model for community-based, open-source mapping initiatives. Its work has not only transformed the accessibility and quality of geographic information in Georgia but has also empowered local communities and promoted a culture of open access and civic engagement. The initiative's success highlights the potential of community-driven projects to generate valuable data and foster social change, making OMC a significant player in the landscape of geographic information systems and civic engagement in the Caucasus region.

 

OpenMapsCaucasus.org