In this presentation Stephan Thiel (Studio NAND) gives an overview of the current state-of-the-art of open-source map making tools and how they can be used to leverage the potential of open GIS datasets by creating map-based visualizations. The introduction is structured around a selection of Stephan’s favorited geo-visualization projects and some background on their creation.

Watch or download the slides in the pdf file.

Stephan Thiel is a Berlin-based designer who enjoys to experiment with technology in order to research at the intersection of computational design, data visualization and interactive experiences. In 2012, together with Steffen Fiedler and Jonas Loh, he founded Studio NAND to carry on with this research in a mix of client projects and collaborations with academic institutions.

MapLab is a work group of Medialab Katowice established to conduct moderator supervised studies on spatial development of Katowice. The team uses open source GIS (geographic information systems) software and data made available by the city administration to monitor the development and parameteres of areas intended for different uses.