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How to create a crowdsourced map

You can use PamPam to create crowdsource maps, by inviting collaborators or linking to a form.

Updated yesterday

Mapping is often a collaborative experience! Whether you're planning a trip or creating a community resource, PamPam makes it easy to collaborate. Here are three ways to crowdsource information for your custom maps:

First, go to your map and find the "Share" button in the top right hand side. From there you can find the link to share with friends or colleagues. At the moment, you cannot individually invite emails or collaborators. PamPam maps can be set to one of three modes: can edit, can add, and can view. Each one allows you to set how people are collaborating or not in your map.

1. "Can Edit" Mode: Full Collaboration

If you're sharing your map with a small, trusted group of people (colleagues, friends, or family), set your map to "Can Edit." With this permission level:

  • Contributors can add spots to the map

  • They can delete spots (including those added by others)

  • They can make other changes to the map

Note: We don't recommend this mode if you're sharing your map broadly.

2. "Can Add" Mode: Controlled Collaboration

For sharing with a broader group while maintaining more control, choose "Can Add" mode. With this permission:

  • Anyone with the link can add spots to the map

  • Contributors can only delete spots they personally added

  • As the map owner, you can delete any unwanted spots

This is ideal when you want an open collaboration experience without the risk of losing valuable information.

3. "Can View" + Form: Moderated Collaboration

For the highest level of control, especially when sharing on social media or with large groups:

  • Set your map to "Can View" (view-only access)

  • Create an external form using Google Sheets, Tally, or similar tools

  • Link to this form from your map for spot suggestions

  • Review submissions and import approved spots using PamPam's import feature

Important Note About Free Plans

If you're using PamPam's free plan, map limits will apply regardless of how many contributors you have. However, your team can collectively add as many spots as allowed on the free tier.

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