Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become a game-changer. While traditional land surveying remains an essential part of mapping and property delineation, GIS offers a dynamic way to analyze and visualize spatial data.
But how do these two fields interact, and what does it mean for land surveyors today? Understanding the relationship between GIS and land surveying can help professionals expand their skill sets, improve efficiency, and open doors to new opportunities.
What is GIS?
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are computerized systems used to collect, analyze, store, and visualize geographic data.
Unlike traditional maps, which provide static representations of an area, GIS allows users to layer various types of data like elevation, property boundaries, infrastructure, and environmental features into a dynamic, interactive model. GIS can be used for urban planning, environmental monitoring, disaster response, and more.
Why and When GIS is Used
GIS is used in a wide range of industries to enhance decision-making by offering detailed spatial analysis. Some of the primary applications include:
- Urban and Regional Planning: Helps governments and developers assess land use, zoning regulations, and infrastructure needs.
- Environmental Conservation: Supports efforts in tracking deforestation, water resource management, and wildlife habitats.
- Disaster Management: Assists in predicting and responding to natural disasters by identifying at-risk areas.
- Real Estate and Property Management: Provides detailed maps of property lines, zoning restrictions, and land values.
- Utility Management: Aids in mapping electrical grids, water pipelines, and communication networks.
Traditional Land Surveying vs. GIS
Land surveying has been around for centuries and remains a crucial profession for mapping property lines, topography, and construction sites. However, GIS presents new ways to collect, store, and interpret geographic information. Below is a comparison of the two approaches:
| Feature | Traditional Land Surveying | GIS |
| Purpose | Measures and maps physical land features with high precision | Analyzes and visualizes geographic data for decision-making |
| Data Collection | Uses total stations, GPS, and laser scanning | Uses satellite imagery, aerial photography, and sensor data |
| Accuracy | Highly precise for specific locations | Broader scale, less precise but provides valuable spatial insights |
| Output | Static maps, plats, and legal descriptions | Digital maps with multiple data layers |
How GIS and Land Surveying Work Together
Rather than competing, GIS and land surveying often complement each other. Surveyors use GIS tools to integrate survey data into larger mapping projects, improving efficiency and accessibility.
Some of the ways that GIS and surveying work together include:
- Survey Data Integration: Land surveyors collect precise measurements, which can then be incorporated into GIS databases for larger spatial analysis.
- Mapping and Visualization: GIS allows surveyors to create detailed, interactive maps that enhance traditional surveying reports inlcuding subsurface 3D utility models.
- Infrastructure Planning: By combining surveyed data with GIS, professionals can better plan roads, bridges, and buildings with a greater understanding of surrounding conditions.
- Remote Sensing and Aerial Surveys: GIS often utilizes satellite and drone imagery to supplement traditional survey methods, offering broader perspectives without the need for on-the-ground measurement.
Data drawn from modern surveying technology such as mobile mapping, LIDAR, and laser scanning is already being managed by GIS which has the capacity to handle this vital information as surveying tools improve.
Expanding Opportunities for Surveyors
With GIS becoming more widely adopted across industries, surveyors who develop GIS expertise can enhance their careers. Many organizations seek professionals who can bridge the gap between precise surveying and GIS-based spatial analysis.
Training in GIS software can open doors to roles in urban planning, environmental management, and infrastructure development.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and land surveying are two essential disciplines in spatial data collection and analysis. While traditional land surveying provides high-precision measurements, GIS allows for the layering and visualization of large-scale geographic data.
Rather than replacing surveyors, GIS enhances their capabilities, offering new tools and opportunities to expand their professional reach. For those in the land surveying field, gaining GIS skills can be a valuable step toward staying competitive in an evolving industry.
Boost Your Land Surveyor Career with McKissock Learning
Ready to explore the possibilities and enhance your land surveying skills? Check out McKissock Learning’s land surveying continuing education courses, including GIS and the Modern Surveyor, which explores the two types of GIS – Geographic Information Systems and Global Information Systems – and how they impact land surveyors.
