Data Licenses (working with licensed datasets)#

Licensing and working with licensed datasets in GIS involves careful adherence to legal, ethical, and practical considerations. Here are some best practices:

  1. Understand the License Terms

  • Read the License Agreement: Carefully review the license terms provided by the dataset owner or distributor.

  • Permitted Uses: Check whether the license allows for commercial, academic, or personal use.

  • Restrictions: Look for restrictions on redistribution, modification, or derived works.

  • Attribution Requirements: Ensure you understand how to credit the data source.

  • Jurisdictional Compliance: Ensure the license complies with legal requirements in your area or the area where the dataset will be used.

  1. Choose the Right License for Your Needs

  • If selecting data, prefer datasets with clear, permissive licenses (e.g., Creative Commons, Open Data Commons) when possible.

  • For proprietary data, confirm the dataset aligns with your intended use and budget.

  1. Maintain Records

  • Document the License: Keep a record of the license agreement for the dataset, including the version and any terms specific to your use case.

  • Metadata Management: Include licensing information in your project metadata to ensure clarity for collaborators and future users.

  1. Attribution and Credit

  • Always follow attribution guidelines specified in the license.

  • Use consistent citation formats in maps, reports, and presentations.

  • Include attribution in metadata when sharing derived works.

  1. Avoid License Violations

  • No Unauthorized Sharing: Do not share licensed datasets with third parties unless explicitly allowed.

  • Limit Derived Data Use: Be cautious when using licensed data to create derivative products—ensure the license permits this.

  1. Secure the Data

  • Store datasets securely to prevent unauthorized access.

  • Ensure datasets are only accessible to authorized personnel in compliance with the license.

  1. Consider Open Data Alternatives

  • Where feasible, use open datasets to reduce licensing complexity and promote transparency.

  • Examples: OpenStreetMap, USGS datasets, Copernicus data.

  1. Monitor Updates to Licenses

  • Check periodically for updates to the dataset’s license.

  • Ensure continued compliance if terms change.

  1. Seek Legal Counsel When Necessary

  • For complex projects or uncertain license terms, consult with legal professionals or your organization’s legal team.

  1. Acknowledge Ethical Considerations

  • Consider data privacy and sensitivity, especially for geospatial datasets that involve personal or culturally sensitive information.

  • Adhere to ethical guidelines, such as those outlined by organizations like the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) or regional equivalents.

  • By adhering to these best practices, you ensure legal compliance, foster trust in your work, and contribute to a responsible and ethical GIS community.