JISC Technology and Standards Watch (TechWatch) has issued an open call for a forthcoming report on data mash-ups and the future of mapping.

There is a growing interest in the use of geospatial and geographical information in combination with Web-based information sources and services.

This has been driven by the emergence of new and low-cost mapping technologies and increasing consumer interest in 'Web 2.0' style, user-generated content through products such as Google Maps and Microsoft Virtual Earth.

JISC TechWatch plans to publish a report which explores the emerging issues associated with such geo-spatial data mash-ups and investigates the future of mapping. The report will examine the trade-offs between the more traditional provision of geographical information systems and their associated standards, and the newer, Web 2.0 style of working with open data and mash-ups. It will also review emerging technologies and standards in this area and discuss the implications for higher education and research.

JISC develops partnerships to enable the UK education and research communities to engage in national and global collaborations to overcome the challenges of delivering world-class ICT solutions and services.

Anyone interested in getting involved, either as a potential author or peer reviewer, should contact Gaynor Backhouse, the project manager, via techwatch@intelligentcontent.co.uk

Further information on the open call can be found on the TechWatch website.