Affordable Web-based Collaborative Mapping Environments for the Analysis and Planning of the Green Networks of Brussels

In this paper, we will discuss the potentials of affordable Geoweb 2.0 technologies. We will reveal two affordable open-source collaborative mapping frameworks and explore their potentials, strengths and weaknesses through two different field implementations in the form of case studies. Refl ecting on our experiences with these cases we will compare the two technological frameworks in terms of participation and mapping support as well as data security, cross-browser compatibility, interface customizability, import-export capability and required level of expertise for setup and management. Moreover, with a designerly lens, we will discuss the levels of design empowerment in two cases in relation with user profi les and pre-designated contribution styles. Finally, we will identify open challenges and suggest future directions