Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team
The
About Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team
editThe Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) is an international organization dedicated to humanitarian aid and community development through open mapping. Founded in 2010, HOT acts as a bridge between the OpenStreetMap community and traditional humanitarian organizations such as Doctors Without Borders, the Red Cross, and UNOCHA. The organization supports thousands of volunteers and local groups worldwide who work to expand OpenStreetMap, particularly in the area of humanitarian mapping to support disaster relief, preparedness, and economic development.
Key Products and Services
editHOT promotes and coordinates the development and provision of open-source software tools for the OpenStreetMap community. These tools enable volunteers to collect and digitize geographic data to create maps that are crucial in crisis situations. Additionally, HOT funds field training and data collection for existing and new OpenStreetMap groups and produces training materials to enhance the skills of mappers.
Mission and Values
editThe main mission of HOT is to apply the principles of open-source software and open data for humanitarian responses and economic development. The organization advocates for inclusivity and the promotion of self-sustaining local groups of motivated and skilled mappers. HOT aims to strengthen the resilience of communities through open mapping and to foster collaboration among various actors in the humanitarian sector.
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editHOT contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by focusing on core areas such as disaster and climate change resilience, sustainable cities and communities, public health, safe migration, and gender equality. The organization is committed to improving the reusability of OpenStreetMap data and supporting the FAIR data principles (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable). Through projects like "Mapping for Climate Ready Cities" in various countries, HOT actively contributes to climate adaptation and resilience.
Global Reach and Collaboration
editWith a global reach, HOT works in numerous countries and regions to collect geographic data and collaborate with local communities. The organization promotes skill development and learning among local communities to map information in OpenStreetMap that is important to them. HOT regularly organizes telemapathons and other events to encourage community participation and raise awareness of the importance of open map data.
By promoting transparency, equality, and diversity in all aspects of its work, HOT remains a leader in the use of open data and technologies to support communities in need.