Fixing OS Maps

The initial master layer is a great start for a map though the issue with OS maps is the overlaying. One of the worst examples of this first off needs the understanding that maps require concentration and understanding due to the  amount of information in front of you. The well organised master first layer snaps inaccurately into the overlaying laying map rendering the focus and concentration into an ugly and non compatible theme of the initial master map. To further expand this, take the design of a few streets you see in the initial master map as your reference then imagine zooming out to the overlayed map and once snapped in, those streets cease to exist and is replaced with a grey block of neighbourhoods without any streets thus breaking immersion and the line of thinking.

OS on my opinion has the most detailed map in the UK and beats its rivals for detail but the overlaying system needs a revamp. OS’s key objective should be, as it is, aimed at walking and walkers who explore. Snapping should be seamless to keep the trial on thought for users when analysing. And more gradual change all the way out to an overview of the whole UK needs to be smooth with a changed design. 3D need to be used to represent topology and geography. At the moment there are 4 overlays/ different layers that make up OS maps and the design themes are all very different from each other. The colour scheme could be anything but as long as the scheme stays the same though each overlay.

On a separate note, google has a new AI focused updates in IOS allowing for geographical locations for pictures. And in this circumstance for OS plant species could be a game changer. This opens up and whole new area of possibility where plant species can be mapped with evidence based data, when zoomed in even closer, instead of just icons like the coniferous/deciduous/bog icons it could allow for more.

If wanted to walk 100 miles from one place to another there could be an option which instead of snapping a path to the quickest direction thus along busy roads it could chose the most scenic route, for example along ridges with views, areas of wild native woodlands, historical sites or whatever else, possibly even animals.

I really want to see OS take the opportunity with AI for a map that encompasses as much enthralment in exploring as possible.