Towards ITS Map Database Interoperability—Database Error and Rectification

One of the impediments to the implementation of ITS is the lack of map database interoperability. Centreline databases are available from a number of sources, but few were designed specifically for ITS. Consequently there are a variety of problems—coordinate inaccuracy, errors of omission and commission, missing or wrong street names, incorrect topology—that are compounded when communicating parties use databases from different vendors. Many ITS applications (e.g., emergency response, ATIS) rely on the exchange of messages in which location is a component. Map error and interoperability problems can result in a variety of practical difficulties, from inappropriate vehicle routing to delays in delivery of critical services. These problems can be addressed by (a) standards for map databases, (b) intelligent messaging, (c) national integration efforts to improve database quality in the long term. This paper examines the dimensions of the problem, and describes solutions currently under development.