Hacker News Reader

Comment by enriquto | Hacker News Reader

But where is the actual data? All that this site has is some photos, I find no maps.

I was going to ask how this is any different from the data that already exists in OpenStreetMap.

The [FAQ page] answers this:

> Slow Ways walking routes – drafted, tested, reviewed and verified by volunteers – suggest the best ways to get between neighbouring towns, cities and villages. Our mapping and routing will show a limited number of paths, making it easier to see and plan journeys.

— curation.

[FAQ page]: https://slowways.uk/frequently-asked-questions/

"We are currently working on building a website that will host all of the routes and hope to launch that later this year."

I call bullshit (somewhat imprudently). I don't understand why they can already put together some professional looking photos, but are not yet willing to release the interesting data.

There are plenty of companies that’ll create a professional looking website for your product, whether it exists or not. That doesn’t mean anything.

What I find more surprising is announcing such a project if there is no result yet, now they get buzz and create disappointment and I don’t see what they gain for it.

That was my point. Announcing that something will (i.e. may) be available in the future is a sure way to shoot yourself in the foot and lose a lot of sympathy.

It is also a sure way to get some attention from potential users and contributors which is good for the project

"During lockdown 700 volunteers from across the country collaborated to produce a first draft of the Slow Ways. This incredible effort has led to the creation of 7,500 routes that collectively stretch for over 110,000km."

The map visible is from the first draft. I don't know why they haven't released the first draft, but it could be that they don't want to release potentially unsafe routes. The pretty website is designed to entice volunteers, which is why "Up for helping us?" is front and centre. It led me to sign up.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com