Calculating Shortest and Fastest Paths using QGIS

Step 1: Install the ORS Tools Plugin

To get started, you need to install the ORS Tools plugin in QGIS. Follow these steps:

1. Go to Plugins in the menu.
2. Select Manage and Install Plugins.
3. Search for ORS Tools in the repository.
4. Click Install to add the plugin.

Step 2: Add OpenStreetMap as a Base Layer

Next, you need to add OpenStreetMap as a base layer to your mapping canvas:

1. Ensure you have the QuickMapServices plugin installed.
2. Go to Web and select QuickMapServices.
3. Choose OSM Standard to add it to your canvas.

Step 3: Generate Your API Key

To utilize the ORS Tools plugin, sign up on the Open Route Service website to obtain an API key:

1. Navigate to openrouteservice.org and sign up.
2. Check your email to activate your account.
3. Log in and request a free token, which will generate your API key.

Step 4: Set Your Starting and Ending Points

Now that you have the API key, specify your starting and ending points on the map:

1. Select the starting point.
2. Choose the destination point.
3. Optionally, add waypoints along your route.

Step 5: Calculate the Fastest Path

With your points set, you can calculate the fastest path:

1. Open ORS Tools from the menu.
2. Select the driving car option for route calculation.
3. Click the plus sign to add waypoints interactively.
4. Click Apply to generate the route.

Step 6: Analyze the Route Information

After generating the route, you can analyze the distance and duration:

1. Open the attributes table of the generated route.
2. Review the distance in kilometres and duration in hours.

Step 7: Calculate the Shortest Path

To find the shortest distance, repeat the process:

1. Select the Shortest option in ORS Tools.
2. Click Apply to generate the shortest path.

FAQ

What is the ORS Tools plugin?

The ORS Tools plugin integrates Open Route Service functionalities into QGIS, allowing users to calculate routes, isochrones, and metrics based on OpenStreetMap data.

How do I get an API key for ORS Tools?

To get an API key, you need to sign up at openrouteservice.org, activate your account, and request a token from the dashboard.

Can I use ORS Tools for walking or cycling routes?

Yes, ORS Tools allows you to choose between driving, walking, and cycling options when calculating routes.