User:SherbetS/Import Checklist

I made this page with the purpose of providing clear and simple things that should be completed when conducting an import.

Getting Started

These steps should be completed after you’ve identified your data and before you start your documentation.

Check that someone else hasn’t already imported the data, or if it’s available via Mapwithai.
Make sure the data is suitable for OpenStreetMap. Land scans from low resolution imagery or voting districts for example are not of enough quality to determine anything useful to add to OSM or outside of the scope of the project.
Figure out if there’s a method to download/extract the data. Data is useless if you can’t access it.
Make sure you are legally allowed to use the data. If not explicitly waived or suitable by law, you will need to contact the team behind the data.

These steps should be completed after you’ve secured legality and eligibility of your data, and before you contact the mailing list.

Run through all the processes that you need to make a file that is ready for import into OSM.
Depending on the type of dataset, give an estimate of the size of the dataset.
- List the total amount of objects present in your dataset, such as total # of buildings or total POIS/addresses
- If it’s a landuse import or something harder to quantify, you can skip this step.
Consider adding pictures, give readers an idea of what you’re working with.

Link your import account, and mention + link any other users that will be working with you.

Provide extremely detailed step-by-step instructions. Make them comprehensive and accurate. Make it to where someone else can easily comprehend and pick up the baton if you aren’t able to work on it anymore.
- If you get approval and import begins, make sure to keep your instructions up to date and always reflective of the current process.

These steps should be completed after you’ve completed documentation, and before you being importing.

Make absolutely sure that your documentation is complete before considering writing the list. you don’t want to still be drafting your document when you’re asking for approval.
Your message should include a short statement summary about what your import contains, and the region you’re importing in.
Mention the licensing circumstances of your import.
Describe the general process by which you’re importing, and anyone you’re working with.
Provide a link to your wiki page, and a link to the data page.