Websites using Kartverket

Okay, let s break down Kartverket (The Norwegian Mapping Authority) based on your requested categories:

What is Kartverket?

Kartverket is the Norwegian Mapping Authority. It is a government agency responsible for mapping, surveying, land registration, and maritime charting in Norway. Think of it as the central source for geospatial information for the entire country, both on land and at sea.

Key Responsibilities:

• Mapping and Geodesy: Creating and maintaining topographic maps, aerial photography, and geodetic reference systems.
• Cadastre (Land Registry): Managing the registration of land ownership, property boundaries, mortgages, and other property rights. This is a crucial function for legal and economic stability.
• Maritime Charting: Producing nautical charts, electronic navigational charts (ENCs), and other maritime information products for safe navigation along Norway s extensive coastline.
• Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI): Developing and maintaining a national SDI to make geospatial data accessible and interoperable for various users.
• Geospatial Research and Development: Conducting research to improve mapping technologies, data accuracy, and the application of geospatial information.

Revenue:

Kartverket s funding primarily comes from the Norwegian government budget. It is not a profit-seeking entity. However, they do generate some revenue through the sale of maps, charts, data, and services. A significant portion of their data is increasingly made available under open data licenses.

Alternatives:

It s important to understand that for many of Kartverket s core functions (like official land registration and national mapping standards), there aren t direct alternatives in the sense of competing agencies within Norway. Kartverket holds the official mandate.

However, depending on the specific need, here are some alternatives or supplementary resources:

• Private Surveyors/Land Surveying Companies: For specific property surveys, boundary disputes, or construction-related surveying, individuals and businesses will hire private licensed surveyors.
• GIS Software and Data Providers: Companies like Esri, QGIS (open source), and others provide GIS (Geographic Information System) software and access to geospatial data. While they don t replace Kartverket s fundamental role, they provide tools to use and analyze geospatial information.
• Commercial Satellite Imagery Providers: Companies like Maxar, Planet, and Airbus provide high-resolution satellite imagery, which can be used for mapping and monitoring purposes, supplementing Kartverket s aerial photography.
• OpenStreetMap (OSM): A collaborative, open-source mapping project. While OSM can be a useful resource, it s important to remember that it is not an official, authoritative source of geospatial data like Kartverket.
• Other National Mapping Agencies: If you need data outside of Norway, you would, of course, use the mapping agency of the relevant country (e.g., USGS in the United States, Ordnance Survey in the UK).

Pricing:

Kartverket has moved towards making a substantial amount of its data available under open data licenses, meaning it is free to use. This includes many base maps, elevation data, and other core datasets.

However, some specialized products and services may still have associated fees. Examples include:

• Advanced data products: Highly detailed or specialized datasets.
• Consulting services: If you require Kartverket to perform specific analyses or provide expert advice.
• Official land registry documents: While access to basic land information may be free, obtaining certified copies of deeds or other legal documents usually involves a fee.
• Nautical Charts: While electronic navigational charts (ENCs) are increasingly used, paper nautical charts are still available for purchase.
• You can find information about prices and licensing on their website.

Customer Care Details:

• Website: The primary point of contact is Kartverket s website (kartverket.no). The site is available in Norwegian and English. You can find information about their services, data products, contact information, and frequently asked questions.
• Contact Form/Email: The website has a contact form that you can use to submit inquiries.
• Phone: They provide phone numbers for general inquiries and specific departments (e.g., land registry, maritime charting). Check the website for the most up-to-date phone numbers.
• Postal Address: You can find the postal address for their headquarters and regional offices on their website.
• Social Media: Kartverket is active on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, where they share updates, news, and information.

Important Considerations:

• Language: While Kartverket s website has an English version, some documentation and services may be primarily in Norwegian.
• Data Accuracy: Kartverket is committed to providing accurate and reliable geospatial data. However, it s always important to understand the data s limitations and intended use.
• Licensing: Pay careful attention to the licensing terms associated with any data you use, even if it s offered for free. Understand what you are allowed to do with the data.

I hope this comprehensive overview is helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.