OpenStreetMap is a collaborative project to create a free, editable map of the world. Anyone can contribute by adding roads, buildings, points of interest, and other geographic data using GPS traces, aerial imagery, or local knowledge. The data is open and available for anyone to use under a permissive license, which means developers can build applications on top of it without paying for map access. Many companies and organizations use OpenStreetMap data as an alternative to proprietary map services.

The main website lets you browse the map, search for places, and get directions. The editing tools are approachable for beginners and powerful for experienced mappers. Because it's community-driven, coverage varies by region, but in many areas it's as detailed as commercial maps. For developers who need map data without licensing restrictions, it's an essential resource.