How to participate
Step 1 - Start Mapping
It is no problem if you have never mapped before. It doesn’t take long to learn - just about an afternoon! If you already know how to edit OpenStreetMap (OSM), feel free to just get started.
If you’re new to mapping, we recommend you keep reading, and watch the videos below to get set up. If you’ve mapped before, consider learning to validate. There are also additional tutorials available on LearnOSM.
Beginners - Start Here!
1. Create an OpenStreetMap and Tasking Manager account
Go to the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team’s Tasking Manager website to create an account. Follow the link in the email they send to confirm your account.
2. Learn to use the Tasking Manager
Go to the Task Manager to find a project and task that interests you. Learn how to lock a task to edit, select an editing program and change the background settings. Note: when your task is reviewed, you’ll get an email. Make sure to give those a read.
3. Learn to map buildings
Buildings are one of the most useful things you can add to OpenStreetMap (and they’re fun too)! Learn how to add and edit buildings to OSM through the iD editor.
4. Learn to map roads
Roads are also one of the most useful things you can add to OpenStreetMap! Learn how to add and edit roads to OSM through the iD editor.
Step 2 - Map your community
Many organizations are using OSM to inform their programs. OSM is great for collecting field data while empowering communities. If you are interested in creating and using data from OSM in your work, these guides will help you get started.
Step 3 - Learn about our work
Missing Maps is a collective of organizations using and growing OSM to best serve communities all over the world. If you want to read more about what happens next, check out the Missing Maps blog.