Begin OSU masthead and toolbar


Kirwan Institute > Research > GIS/Mapping > Opportunity Mapping

Opportunity Mapping

Opportunity mapping is a research tool used to understand the dynamics of “opportunity” within metropolitan areas. The purpose of opportunity mapping is to illustrate where opportunity rich communities exist (and assess who has access to these communities) and to understand what needs to be remedied in opportunity poor communities. Opportunity mapping builds upon the rich history of using neighborhood based information and mapping to understand the challenges impacting our neighborhoods.

Why should we map neighborhood conditions or opportunity?

How does opportunity mapping work?

How can opportunity mapping be applied to issues of social justice?

Our selected Opportunity Mapping Research initiatives are showcased here

Using Interactive Maps: Examples of Using Interactive Maps to Answer Research Questions

Example 1: What is the relationship between foreclosures and "neighborhoods of opportunity" in Baltimore, MD?

Example 2: Are there enough services within walking distance of my neighborhood? (Site managed by Walkscore.com)

Example 3: Which communities have the most infrastructure and support for technology in Massachusetts? (Site managed by MA High Technology Council)

Example 4: What are the historical trends in population growth in the US? (Site managed by SocialExplorer.com)

Coming Soon: The Neighborhood Opportunity Mapping Network (A blog and resource web site for individuals and organizations using neighborhood based information systems).