Maps with uMap
DIY Maps
© Lead Image © Matttilda, fotolia.com
uMap provides an easy way to create advanced maps based on the OpenStreetMap service. This article explains how to put uMap's features and functionality to practical use.
Thanks to its open nature, OpenStreetMap spurred a large number of genuinely useful applications that piggy-back on this excellent map project. uMap [1] is a case in point: This web-based application allows you to create multi-layered maps complete with markers, lines, and polygons (Figure 1).
uMap software is released under an open source license, and the project's website provides instructions on how to deploy a uMap instance on your own server. This is not a trivial task, though. So, it probably makes sense to start with a hosted service. You can choose from several hosted uMap installations, including the one maintained by uMap developers at umap.openstreetmap.fr. Although you can use the service anonymously, it's worth creating an account, because this allows you to save and manage your maps. uMap supports several popular sign-in providers, including GitHub, Bitbucket, Twitter, and, of course, OpenStreetMap. Once you've signed in, click the Create a map button to generate a map.
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