Crowdsourcing Geographic Knowledge: Principles and Practice

The process of gathering geographical data supplied by non-expert users and combining it into useful geospatial datasets is known as crowdsourcing of geographic information. Within the context of geospatial data, the term "Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI)" expressedly refers to a dedicated collection effort inviting non-expert users to contribute, even if the term crowdsourcing generally indicates a coordinated bottom-up grassroots effort to provide information. This information, often shared via open platforms like OpenStreetMap or citizen science projects, enriches mapping and spatial databases with diverse, real-time data. VGI can include GPS traces, photos tagged with location, or annotations on digital maps. Its value lies in its immediacy and detail, supplementing traditional data sources like governmental surveys. VGI exemplifies the democratization of geographic information, empowering communities and individuals to actively participate in mapping and influencing decision-making processes. The book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of outsourcing geographic data and the recent researches in this field. The various advancements in Volunteered Geographic Information are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. Scientists and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.