Ordnance Survey (OS), the United Kingdom’s national mapping agency, has begun a significant transformation towards integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations. Founded in 1791, the organization is shifting from traditional mapping methods to advanced technological solutions, including machine learning and computer vision.
The agency’s journey includes modernizing its data collection and analysis processes. Over the past decade, OS has embedded AI into its workflows, enabling the organization to handle over 500 million features that are updated 20,000 times a day. This level of data processing far exceeds human capability, allowing OS to deliver rapid, accurate map updates that support urban planning and development.
Innovative Applications of AI
AI is being utilized at OS to automatically extract features from aerial and street-level imagery. This technology facilitates near real-time updates regarding changes in land use, infrastructure, and buildings. For instance, when assessing buildings, AI can analyze roof structures and even suggest potential materials used, although it also requires careful validation. The organization employs confidence scoring metrics to ensure users understand the reliability of AI-generated data, thereby supporting informed decision-making.
With the recent launch of the OS National Geographic Database, the agency is further advancing its digital transformation. New Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and tailored download services allow users to customize data according to their needs. This initiative is part of OS’s broader goal to democratize access to geospatial information. The integration of agentic AI enables users to make natural language requests, streamlining data extraction for various applications, ranging from planning mobile network locations to developing solar car parks or housing sites.
Cultural Shift and Future Directions
The implementation of AI at OS is not solely a technical enhancement; it necessitates a cultural shift within the organization. To effectively integrate AI tools into everyday workflows, OS emphasizes quality, risk management, and intellectual property protection. This requires ongoing training and upskilling of staff, ensuring that employees are prepared for the transformations AI brings.
As OS navigates this digital landscape, it remains committed to preserving the human aspects of its work, balancing efficiency with creativity and interpersonal relationships. The agency is rethinking its approach to service delivery, aiming to provide scalable, customer-focused solutions that evolve with user needs.
For an organization with a legacy spanning over 230 years, the embrace of AI represents a pivotal moment. OS is leveraging AI not only to enhance its mapping capabilities but to redefine how it serves its customers in a rapidly evolving technological environment. By combining tradition with innovation, OS is poised to build a smarter, more connected Britain through the power of geospatial intelligence.
