Ordnance Survey unlocks new data-driven innovation with Snowflake

Ordnance Survey (OS) has revealed that its open datasets are now available through Snowflake Marketplace. This paves the way for innovation across sectors from urban development and EV infrastructure planning, to environmental monitoring, emergency response and other essential location-based services. Therefore, allowing users to access OS's trusted location data via Snowflake’s platform opens the door to a wealth of possibilities. Ordnance Survey (OS) is the UK's leading mapping authority.

​​The ​Snowflake​ AI Data Cloud​ makes it easier for users to directly access OS data within applications such as web mapping tools, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and business intelligence platforms. This streamlined access will help organizations improve workflows, reduce data management complexity and enable more effective, data-driven decision-making. 

OS Open datasets available on Snowflake ​Marketplace ​include Open Names, Open Rivers, Open Roads, Open Greenspace, Built-Up Areas, Open UPRN, and Boundary Line.  

“Location data is the invisible fabric of modern Britain – it connects data to places. By applying a geospatial lens, data can be brought to life through maps and other forms of visualizations. It adds so much more context beyond traditional spreadsheets and databases. Collaborating with Snowflake allows us to share our authoritative data with a wider audience and seamlessly integrate location data into various analytics tools and platforms,” said Nick Bolton, CEO, Ordnance Survey. 

“By making our data more accessible, we will help unlock innovation, support critical decision-making and a range of applications. This includes enhancing public services ​and​ driving private sector growth. Location data is the golden thread that weaves immense value when applied to the right challenges, and this collaboration is a crucial step in broadening that impact​,​”​ he added.

Computer vision and machine learning

The move to Snowflake​’s​ ​AI Data Cloud ​follows OS’s recent digital transformation, which included the modernization of the OS National Geographic Database (NGD) and offering customers a bespoke download service for a more efficient data experience. OS has also made significant investments in AI technologies such as ​c​omputer ​v​ision and ​m​achine ​l​earning to meet the evolving needs of customers and enhance data usability.  

In the near future, there are plans to add other datasets on Snowflake, including OS NGD and other premium products. 

​​James Petter​, ​vice president, ​Snowflake ​EMEA , stated: “Our new collaboration ​with OS ​will enhance data sharing and data visualization based on accurate location data. Through our easy, connected and trusted platform, customers across various industries will be able to access OS data to unlock new opportunities for innovation and enable faster decision-making.” 

By integrating its open data on Snowflake Marketplace, Ordnance Survey (OS) reinforces its dedication to making location data more accessible. This move enables more users to gain valuable insights, driving better public services, enhanced efficiency, and contributing to economic growth across the UK. As the national mapping agency for Great Britain, OS’s trusted data and expertise are essential in shaping a modern, digital Britain – one that leads the way in building sustainable, healthy and connected communities globally.