Latest Release Adds Read Support for Popular Open Source Format

Vancouver, BC, March 26, 2009 – Safe Software, the leaders in spatial ETL (extract, transform and load), announced today that they have introduced read support for the OpenStreetMap™ (OSM) format in their latest release, FME^® 2009. This new support offers the abilities to manipulate, mash up and share OSM datasets, making it easier for users to work with OpenStreetMap data in creative and innovative ways.

OpenStreetMap is an XML-based format that has been developed as part of an open initiative to create free geographic data, such as street maps, and make them available to anyone. The collaborative effort of over 50,000 registered volunteers has used portable GPS devices and aerial photography to create this worldwide dataset.

With FME's new support for the OpenStreetMap format, users can now bring OSM datasets into their preferred applications and combine OSM data with datasets from other formats. All of this integrated data can even be streamed out in any FME-supported format or made available for users to download in their preferred format.

"Supporting OpenStreetMap is a continuation of our commitment to connecting users with the data they need," says Dale Lutz, Vice President of Development at Safe Software. "We look forward to seeing the innovative ways that OpenStreetMap data will be used."

Safe Software offers desktop and server based solutions for translating, transforming, integrating and distributing data to enable data access across organizations. FME's read support for OSM API 0.5 OpenStreetMap XML data uses OSM-defined conventions for converting data primitives into representations within a schema for any user-selected output format. Users can also define their own schema and conventions for interpreting OpenStreetMap data, making for flexible manipulation and translation of OSM datasets.

Users interested in learning more about FME can visit www.safe.com.

About Safe and FME
Safe Software powers the flow of spatial data with its software platform, FME. The recognized standard in spatial ETL (extract, transform and load), FME is the only complete solution for data conversion. It delivers the most extensive format support for data translation and integration, and provides unlimited flexibility in data model transformation and distribution.

FME is used by thousands of customers worldwide in a variety of industries including government, utilities, and petroleum. Its powerful data access technology also makes FME the choice of leading GIS, CAD, and database vendors for integration into their own solutions. Designed for true data interoperability, FME unleashes spatial data so people can use it where, when, and how they want to. For more information, visit www.safe.com.

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Media Contact:
Lakhvir Brar
Acting Director of Marketing
Safe Software Inc.
(604) 501-9985 ext. 274
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