October 22, 2005

worldKit is now Open Source

Yes it is!

Just over two years ago, the first rev of worldKit was released. It was basically World as a Blog, with some config to read any geocoded RSS file. The aim was simple: to make mapping easy.

Since then, I've developed in my spare time and full time. Loads of fantastic maps and geodata have been published, from all over the world, from individuals and huge beauracracies, in themes I never imagined. GeoRSS is fast becoming the baseline for publishing geographic data on the web. It's been fantastic. And the real privelage is that it has led to contacts, collaborations, and friendships with so many smart, creative and passionate people.

Today, mapping is a whole lot easier. Google, Yahoo, O'Reilly, all the big tech and media companies, are clued into this and are fully aware of the power of maps. It sometimes seems incredible to me that worldKit still has a strong niche in the web mapping world. I think it's both one of the simplest and most sophisticated packages out there, and still has a lot of potential.

Going Open Source is the best way to see worldKit reach its potential. I will still be very involved, but you know, I can't do it alone. I'm really looking forward to see how this develops. Welcome!

Posted by Mikel at October 22, 2005 06:55 PM