OpenStreetMap successful server funding drive

The OpenStreetMap.org project provides mapping software and data to you, for your use in creative and important ways. The project is tremendously successful and growing, worldwide. That growth and success stresses the servers used to provide the data you want to use.

So, on Thursday, 05 February 2009, the OpenStreetMap Foundation launched a funding drive to raise money for a new database server. On Saturday, 07 February 2009, donations passed the goal set for the new server. This means a few things.

Firstly, it means that OpenStreetMap will be able to acquire the new database server in short order. This is wonderful and will help A LOT to reduce service slowdowns that you may have noticed recently.

Secondly, it means that a new API server is closer to reality as well. The API server has also been taxed by OSM growth and is the likely next requirement for smooth growth.

Thirdly, it is a continuing demonstration of the diverse, wonderful and generous community around OpenStreetMap. Community funding for OpenStreetMap is typically Just This Fast. It was this fast when in 2006 when SteveC, OSM founder, first tested the waters with his Month of OSM initiative. That funding allowed SteveC to work full time on OSM without the distraction of a "day job." It sped the growth of OSM by squashing many bugs and leading to the release of a new OSM main web site.

The fabulousness of the OpenStreetMap community is no surprise to me, having met hundreds of new and experienced OSMers in the last few years. And that community is the great value of OSM. That community is what drives me to participate in OpenStreetMap.

The Google Open Source Programs Office made a very generous contribution to this funding drive. The folks there, Leslie, Chris, Cat and many more, are wonderful in every possible way. I've had the pleasure of meeting them and the great benefit of their counsel, friendship and support. I can't wait to see them again soon.