What is Point of Interest (POI) Data? Examples, Datasets and Providers

How is Point of Interest (POI) Data Collected?

Information on a point of interest, such as its address and coordinates, can be sourced from:

• Websites: Business websites, restaurant websites, event pages.
• Social media: User-generated content, Facebook check-ins, Instagram location tags, X posts.
• Government databases: Local business registries, official records, zoning maps.
• Open platforms: Digital maps that aggregate extensive location data like Google Maps.
• Real-world data collection: On-site surveys, GPS tracking, physical inspections.

What Are the Main Attributes of Point of Interest (POI) Data?

The attributes of POI data, like many other types of geospatial data, can vary depending on the specific dataset or database. Some common attributes include the name of the POI, its address, geographical coordinates (latitude and longitude), category or type of the POI (e.g., restaurant, museum), contact information (phone number, website), opening hours, ratings or reviews, and additional descriptive information. Other attributes may include amenities, photos, accessibility features, and user-generated content.

Here’s a table of the main attributes you might find in Point of Interest (POI) datasets:

How Accurate Are POI Data?

The accuracy of POI data can vary, depending on the data source and the provider’s methods for collecting and verifying the information. Reputable providers use validation techniques like ground truth verification, cross-referencing multiple data sources, and incorporating user feedback to ensure high levels of accuracy. If accuracy is essential for your project, we recommend selecting providers that have multiple methods of data validation.

How Frequently Are POI Data Updated?

The update frequency for POI data can range from real-time updates to monthly or quarterly, depending on the provider and the type of data. For applications that require up-to-the-minute information, like navigation or retail analytics, real-time updates are ideal. If you’re working on long-term projects, monthly updates may suffice.

How Are POI Data Priced?

The pricing for POI data depends on several factors, such as the geographic coverage, level of detail, and licensing terms. Common pricing models include subscription plans, volume-based pricing (charging per number of POIs or API calls), or one-time purchases. Some providers offer custom pricing based on your specific needs. We suggest comparing several providers on Datarade and reviewing the available pricing models to find the best fit for your budget.

Can I Combine POI Data with Other Geospatial Data?

Yes! POI data can be integrated with other geospatial datasets, such as demographic data, transportation networks, or satellite imagery, to provide a more comprehensive analysis. This combination can give you deeper insights into location-based trends and help you build more powerful applications. For example, combining POI data with traffic data can enhance real estate evaluations or urban planning projects.

Can I Contribute to Improving the Accuracy of POI Data?

Yes, many platforms allow users to contribute to improving the accuracy of POI data by submitting corrections or adding missing locations. Some providers rely on user feedback or crowdsourced data to keep their datasets up-to-date. If you’re using a platform that supports user contributions, participating in this process can help improve the data’s overall quality for everyone.

Are There Legal Considerations When Using POI Data?

Yes, It’s important to consider legal aspects when using POI data. Ensure compliance with the data provider’s licensing agreements, which may include restrictions on data usage. Additionally, when handling personal data (such as user reviews or contact information), make sure to comply with privacy regulations like GDPR. We recommend reviewing the provider’s usage terms on their Datarade profile.

How Do I Choose the Right POI Data for My Needs?

Choosing the right POI data depends on factors like geographic coverage, the level of detail needed, update frequency, and pricing. It’s also helpful to evaluate user reviews and sample datasets to ensure the data fits your specific use case. We suggest taking advantage of our free data samples feature when available to assess the quality before making a decision.