Characterizing collaborative mapping projects. A methodological framework for analyzing volunteered geographic information and spatial data infrastructure convergence

Abstract

In this article, we compile and characterize a total of 43 collaborative web map projects by a set of parameters that enable the understanding and comparability of current and future projects. We then develop a comprehensive methodological framework to explore volunteered geographic information (VGI) and spatial data infrastructure (SDI) convergence based on this review. The main results show the dominance of citizen science projects, followed by initiatives promoting sustainability values, local development, and governance. Although values remain low, the potential to achieve convergence in VGI–SDI features is very high in citizen science projects, where the presence of experts and the funding of these projects by governments and decision‐making entities enable quality standards in the collection and distribution of the contributed information. The work concludes by addressing two major challenges facing current VGI projects: firstly, accessing affordable technological solutions that allow the creation of collaborative web maps with SDI‐like functions. Secondly, guaranteeing the project's sustainability and the preservation of the information gathered.