The Wonders of OneMap
You’ve heard of Google Maps, but do you know about Singapore’s very own mapping platform, OneMap?
OneMap is an interactive mapping platform created by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). Launched in March 2010, it was the result of a national initiative known as SG-SPACE, which aimed to create a common platform on which government agencies could share and use geospatial data.
While OneMap did achieve its initial goal, it quickly became much more than a simple mapping platform. Its accuracy (it’s often more accurate than Google Maps!) and user-friendly interface attracted an overwhelming number of users. Soon, it began to accommodate innovative mashups from other agencies and NGOs.
You can now access OneMap base-maps and combine them with your own geo-tagged data. For the more tech-savvy, you can even access OneMap APIs to design more complex user interfaces. OneMap even has a crowdsourcing tool (introduced in 2012) which allows organisations to facilitate crowd-sourced information on their website.
OneMap started out with only 16 partners, 20 themes and 5 services. Today, it has almost 100 partners, 64 themes and 37 services. Many more private organizations and communities continue to use OneMap to build innovative apps. Here are our top 3 picks for OneMap features:
1. Volunteering becomes easier when you know where to go. Here is how you can find volunteer opportunities in your area (NVPC)
2. Want to move into an environmentally conscious building? Simply use this OneMap theme to locate certified green buildings in Singapore (BCA)
3. Nature-lovers, you can now easily locate bird-watching hotspots in Singapore (NSS)
You’ve seen what can be done with OneMap. Now, it’s your turn! Learn how to use OneMap at our OneMap API Workshop (happening THIS SATURDAY) and implement your next big idea. This workshop is a primer to the GeoHackathon and a perfect introduction for gaining some practical knowledge on OneMap iOS and Android APIs. Click here to sign up now!
Still curious about OneMap? Here are some interesting links:
