When planning a new project that requires land surveying, one of the key decisions you’ll have to make is choosing between Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and traditional surveying methods. Both have their merits, but understanding the differences between the tried and true methods versus their modern counterparts can help you make the best choice for your project.
While Meridian Surveys are experts in every land surveying method, our passion for advanced technology and cutting-edge developments means we are always at the forefront of safe, smart, and financially savvy land surveying practices. To help you make the right decision for your needs, we’ll break down what each method involves, its key advantages, and how to determine whether GIS or traditional mapping services are most suitable for your project. Let’s dive in!
Understanding GIS and Traditional Mapping Methods
Traditional Mapping Methods: Traditional land surveying methods have been the backbone of mapping for centuries. These methods involve physically measuring distances, angles, and ground elevations using tools like theodolites, levels, and measuring instruments. Surveyors then use these measurements to create detailed maps, plans, and routes for development.
Advantages of Traditional Mapping:
- High Accuracy: Traditional methods are known for their precision, especially in smaller areas or when detailed measurements are required. They’re also handy in previously developed areas, with a high concentration of existing structures to factor into plans.
- Reliability: While they aren’t as fancy as their modern counterparts, these methods have been tried and tested over time (seriously- historians believe the first land survey was conducted in 3000 BC in Egypt), making them a trusted choice for good reason.
- Tactile Connection: Traditional surveying involves hands-on work and documentation of the land, often resulting in a deeper understanding of the terrain. This contributes to continued usage, as some surveyors prefer to measure and calculate by hand.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS): GIS, on the other hand, is modern technology that uses satellite imagery, aerial photography, existing databases of information, and computer software to collect, analyze, and display spatial data. Instead of measuring everything on the ground, GIS allows surveyors to map large areas quickly and with a high degree of accuracy and detail by combining various data sources.
Advantages of GIS:
- Efficiency: Thanks to digital information and high-powered computing support, GIS mapping can cover immense land areas in less time than traditional methods. This is particularly useful for projects like city planning or environmental management.
- Data Integration: GIS allows for the combination of different data sources and types (like topography, demographics, zoning, and more) into a single map, providing a more comprehensive view of the land’s suitability and usage than just spatial orientation.
- Versatility: GIS technology is highly adaptable and can be used for a wide range of applications, from real estate development to agriculture to disaster management. As it uses more than just land mapping software, it can be used in many different scenarios.
Critical Differences Between GIS and Traditional Mapping
The main difference to consider when choosing between GIS and traditional surveying methods is how your data will be collected and processed. Traditional methods are more hands-on, require a surveyor’s physical presence, and direct measurements, while GIS relies on remote sensing and digital processing. This difference affects both the time needed to complete the survey, the survey’s manpower budget, and the types of projects each method is best suited to.
When to Choose GIS Mapping for Your Survey
While traditional methods are invaluable in certain situations and can be done by any land survey company, there are scenarios where using a team like Meridian Survey with advanced technology and GIS mapping training might be the best option, such as:
- Large-Scale Projects: GIS surveys can save time and resources when surveying vast areas like cities or wildlife preserves. In harsh outdoor environments, it’s also safer for technicians or operators to use GIS technology rather than be exposed to the elements.
- Complex Data Needs: If your project requires integrating various data types and sources (such as local environmental factors, population data, or infrastructure hubs), GIS offers a powerful platform for analysis with less room for human error.
- Frequent Updates: GIS allows easy data updates and comparisons over time for projects that require regular updates or monitoring, such as tracking environmental changes. The data tables GIS can present are also often more robust and detailed.
No Matter What Services You Need, Meridian Surveys Can Help
Choosing between GIS and traditional surveying methods depends on your project’s specifics- and your overall preferences. With our extensive experience in GIS and traditional survey mapping, Meridian Surveys can help you determine the best approach for your project and guarantee the accuracy of our results, no matter what industry or sector you’re working in.
Whether you need the hands-on accuracy of traditional methods or the wide-reaching analytic capabilities of GIS, Meridian Surveys has the expertise and tools to guide you. Contact our team or request a quote today, and let us help you make the right decision for your next project!