Current shortcomings of global mapping and the creation of a new geographical framework for the world

The vast bulk of topographic mapping - the geographical framework used to underpin many activities of the state and of business - has been created and is maintained to national standards. As a consequence, what is available differs greatly from country to country. Yet there is a range of needs for globally-consistent map information. Such needs have long been recognized: the International Map of the World was an attempt to meet them. A multiplicity of factors has constrained the National Mapping Organizations from meeting this aim. However, new technologies have enhanced our capacity to create a geographical framework almost anywhere in the world. Using such technologies, commercial and other non-commercial bodies (e.g. the US military and its counterparts within NATO) have begun to produce wide-area geographical information. This paper describes the nature of the need for global mapping, the players involved and the drivers and obstacles to progress. It proposes a rapid way to enhance the current situation through public/private sector partnerships based on a combination of skills, information assets and resources. If implemented, this could lead to global coverage of a framework derived from 1:250 00 scale mapping within about two years.