Mobile Routing Services for Small Towns using CloudMade API and OpenStreetMap

This research presents a practical solution for mobile routing services for small towns using open sources. Free mapping application program interfaces (API) provided by web map services, including routing services, are available to create customised map based web services combining their cartographic base data with the users own data. However, most applications focus on big cities. Location based services in small towns are generally few as many people believe there is a little demand in such areas. However, the demand of LBS applications in some small towns can be as strong as big cities, for example university towns and tourist resorts. Better location based services, especially routing services, can help strangers get familiar with the environment in a short time and lead them to places of interest. However, there are two problems to overcome for such systems. One is cost both in terms of data costs and development time. Open source data and mash-up technology could provide an answer. The other problem is the availability of suitable data of the required accuracy and detail. This is more serious as most free map services, such as Google Maps and Microsoft Bing Maps (Virtual Earth), don’t provide sufficient detailed and accurate data for routing services. One feasible and economical way is to create the map ourselves and have it updated by the public. OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a free, open and fast developing map of the world. Detailed data was collected using a GPS logging device and uploaded to OpenStreetMap. The CloudMade API was used to provide multi-mode routing services together with turn-by-turn descriptions for car users, bicycle riders, and pedestrians. This solution is relatively easy and fast to deploy. Maynooth, a small university town in County Kildare Ireland, was used as a test bed. A prototype navigation system was developed for mobile users using the Windows Mobile platform. The system demonstrates that a solution to detailed navigational services for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers can be economical and feasible for small towns