The Java OpenStreetMap Editor (JOSM) is our favorite editor for power mapping, and we use plugins to work more efficiently. We’re constantly looking for ways to improve mapping tools, and have built two plugins to help us work even better in OpenStreetMap.
JOSM task configuration
We focus our mapping projects on specific tasks, which require repeated configuration steps in JOSM. For instance, highway realignment in Japan involved: applying a custom style in JOSM to highlight fresh data; setting tag filters; enabling particular plugins and special shortcuts; loading satellite imagery; setting a changeset and source comment. All of this configuration was required before we even started mapping.
The task configuration plugin removes this repeated configuration step. Configuration parameters are stored in sharable JSON files that anyone can load into JOSM.
To install this plugin, download the jar file and copy it to your JOSM plugin folder, on OSX this is ~/Library/JOSM/plugins. Activate the plugin from JOSM Preferences > Plugins and restart JOSM.
The ‘Task Config’ menu lists common tasks that you can choose from. This startup list is universal for all users of the plugin and can be modified. To create a custom configuration follow this JSON structure and host it online by using a GitHub gist. From the plugin menu, use Load task from URL to load your settings. The task config is stored only during the user session and is lost on reloading JOSM.
Changeset URL to clipboard
We often need a way to quickly share the URL of a new OpenStreetMap changeset with other mappers. The changesetID plugin places the URL onto your clipboard right after a changeset is uploaded.
To install this plugin, download the jar file and copy it to your JOSM plugin folder, on OSX that is ~/Library/JOSM/plugins. Activate the plugin from JOSM Preferences > Plugins and restart JOSM.
We are constantly trying to improve OpenStreetMap tools so that everyone become a power mapper. Take these plugins for a spin and let me know if you have any questions!