OpenStreetMap.org (OSM) is a collaborative, open-source project that provides a global, editable map of the world, much like a Wiki database. 

With millions of volunteer OpenStreetMap contributors, OSM data is free and widely used for mapping and geographic analysis across various industries. This data is especially useful for non-profits and federal governments requiring geospatial data for general planning where approximate locations suffice.  

Managed by the OpenStreetMap Foundation (OSMF), OSM’s nonprofit structure ensures data remains open and accessible on the official website, with contributions from individual mappers and larger organizations.

Despite being free, OpenStreetMap data can have gaps in accuracy, consistency, and completeness. This is where premium data providers like dataplor, with higher quality datasets, play a key role by offering up-to-date accurate location data, seamless integrations, and continuous data accuracy verification. 

Understanding the true cost of “free” data in the online ecosystem is essential for making informed decisions about geospatial needs.

In this article, we’ll look at OSM’s offerings, the limitations of open-source data, and the added value dataplor brings to businesses in need of high-quality geospatial insights.

Why Location Data Matters

Location data is a valuable asset for businesses. It provides insights into customer behavior, optimizes operational logistics, and facilitates strategic planning. 

With accurate location data, businesses can make data-driven decisions that lead to better customer experiences, targeted marketing, and optimized supply chains.

From site selection to real-time asset tracking, high-quality geospatial data helps businesses stay agile and responsive in a competitive market. 

Investing in reliable, detailed location data can greatly enhance a company’s ability to achieve its strategic goals and adapt to changing market conditions.

Drawbacks of OSM

Are you wondering why not to opt for OSM? Here are some areas where it falls short.

Data Discrepancy

In the past, there have been instances where contributors have manipulated OSM data to serve their own interests. For example, during the Pokémon Go craze, changes to OSM data were made to influence in-game locations, impacting the user experience. Intentionally altering the data like this can compromise the reliability of OSM for business operations that rely on consistent and unbiased data.

Inconsistent Data Quality

One of OpenStreetMap’s most significant drawbacks is the variability in data accuracy and completeness across regions. 

Since volunteers contribute to OSM, the data quality can vary, often resulting in outdated or incorrect information. 

In areas with fewer contributors, the data may contain gaps, which can be problematic for business operations that require up-to-date, reliable information.

Relying on inconsistent or inaccurate data can lead to significant financial losses, potentially costing your business hundreds or even thousands of dollars in profitability. 

Limited Attribution Data

OSM provides basic geography but often lacks business details like opening hours, phone numbers, or online reviews. 

This limited attribute data can prevent businesses from profiling, engaging with local markets, and gaining customer insights and outreach strategies for commercial use.

Time-Consuming Data Processing

Using OSM data for commercial purposes can require significant effort.

Data cleaning, validation, and enrichment are often necessary, as raw OSM data may not meet the quality standards or specific criteria businesses need. 

This additional processing adds time and cost, making OSM less suitable for businesses looking for a ready-to-use data solution.

Lack of Real-Time Updates

OSM data doesn’t have the frequent real-time updates businesses need to stay current. 

In rapidly changing environments like cities or expanding regions, this delay can result in outdated maps with minimal overlay data, impacting decisions for activities such as delivery routing, customer service, and local marketing.

Advantages of dataplor’s Comprehensive Data

While OSM is an open-source option, businesses often need higher quality, more detailed, and up-to-date location data to stay ahead of the competition. One of our most common FAQs is how dataplor can provide this advantage. 

Here are some of the advantages of using premium data.

High Data Quality

dataplor’s data is known for its accuracy, completeness, and consistency. 

Regular updates ensure our datasets reflect real-world changes, minimize errors, and enhance the reliability of the insights. 

This high-quality data allows businesses to make confident decisions without worrying about data integrity.

Rich Attribute Data

Beyond the basic coordinates, dataplor’s datasets include extensive business details such as contact information, operating hours, and even online reviews. 

This attribute data allows businesses to profile and engage with local markets, providing deeper customer insights and allowing you to tailor your strategy to specific regions.

Easy Integration

dataplor simplifies the integration of location data into your existing business applications with a consistent global schema.

This ease of integration allows you to quickly implement data without lengthy development times, making it ideal for businesses that require fast and flexible solutions.

Real-Time Updates

dataplor provides real-time updates, ensuring the data reflects the latest changes on the ground.

This is essential for time-sensitive operations such as logistics, delivery, and regional marketing, where having up-to-date information is key to success.

Benefits of Comprehensive POI Data

Access to high-quality Point-of-Interest (POI) data gives businesses many strategic advantages, including the ability to optimize operations and make data-driven decisions that drive growth and profitability.

Increase Revenue

POI data helps identify locations for expansion and tailor marketing efforts to local needs. 

It allows you to understand potential customers’ preferences and target them more effectively, helping to grow your revenue accordingly.

Outpace Competitors

Having real-time POI data allows you to respond more quickly to market changes than your competition. 

With local insights, you can innovate based on changing demand, adjust to the industry ahead of the competition, and remain relevant to your customers—both online and at your  physical store locations.

Support Site Selection

Location data is key for retail, real estate, and many other industries. 

POI data gives an in-depth view of an area’s demographics, competitor presence, and infrastructure, allowing you to make more informed site selections and choose the right location to maximize profit.

Support Investment Decisions

For investors, knowing the geography of an asset is a huge advantage. 

POI data gives you insights into local economic conditions, infrastructure developments, and consumer behavior so you can make informed, low-risk decisions that align with your investment strategy.

Reach New Audiences

POI data shows you the untapped areas and customer bases that align with your growth plans. 

You can use this data to expand into new markets, reach a wider audience, and build customer loyalty in previously unreached areas.

Unlock the Power of Comprehensive Data with dataplor

Choosing the right geospatial data source can be a game-changer for businesses, especially when it comes to accuracy, reliability, and speed. 

While OSM data is free and community-driven, its limitations in consistency, depth, and real-time accuracy can pose challenges. In contrast, dataplor provides high-quality, commercially focused data sets designed for today’s competitive market.

Unlike OSM’s crowd-sourced model, dataplor continuously validates and enriches its data, providing robust POI insights, timely updates, and extensive attributes like business hours, contact details, and more. 

This is why dataplor is the preferred choice for decision-makers who can’t afford the inconsistencies of free data.

With dataplor on your side, you can: 

• Make decisions based on the latest information.
• Gain a competitive edge by fully understanding your operating environment.
• Skip the hassle of in-house data management and focus on strategy.

Transform your business strategy with dataplor’s high-quality geospatial data. 

Contact dataplor today to learn more about how comprehensive, accurate data can give your organization the edge it needs to succeed.

Start making data-driven decisions now with confidence. 

Partner with dataplor today and experience all the benefits in real-time!