Public mapping comprises the basic public service of gathering, administering and updating national basic topographic data, producing general topographic maps, and making topographic maps and data available to the public. The overall aim of these public mapping activities is to promote the well-being of the population and business competitiveness, and to help to ensure good administrative practices by providing versatile, high-quality maps, topographic data and geographic information services. The research and development done in conjunction with public mapping should have a sound theoretical basis and produce solutions that can readily be applied in practice.

The public mapping strategy provides guidelines for the production of general topographic maps and data covering the whole country, and related services, in 2001-2010. Special attention is given to improving the availability, uniformity and quality of geographic information and the application of solutions supporting international standardization.