How can land surveyors collaborate and communicate better with other stakeholders using digital technologies?

1 Benefits of digital technologies

Digital technologies can offer many advantages for land surveyors and their partners, such as increased accuracy and efficiency. By using advanced equipment, such as GPS, laser scanners, drones, and 3D modeling software, land surveyors can collect and process more data in less time, reducing errors and rework. Additionally, enhanced visualization and communication is possible through digital maps, models, and reports. This allows land surveyors to present their findings and recommendations more clearly and convincingly, while facilitating feedback and collaboration with other stakeholders. Furthermore, improved safety and sustainability is achievable by reducing the need for physical site visits and paper documents. This helps minimize environmental impact and exposure to hazards while complying with health and safety regulations.

2 Best practices for digital collaboration and communication

In order to make the most of digital technologies, land surveyors should adhere to certain best practices. They should select the digital tools and platforms that fit their needs and preferences, as well as ensure they have adequate training and support to use them properly. Additionally, it is important to agree on protocols and standards for data collection, processing, storage, and sharing with partners, while respecting the privacy and security of the data. Furthermore, land surveyors should communicate frequently and transparently with their partners, keeping them informed on the progress of their work. They should also solicit and provide feedback, resolving any issues or conflicts in a timely and respectful manner.

3 Examples of digital tools and platforms

There are numerous digital tools and platforms available for land surveyors and their partners, tailored to their needs and goals. Cloud-based platforms, like Trimble Connect, Autodesk BIM 360, and ArcGIS Online, allow land surveyors to store, access, and share data and documents online in real time. Mobile apps such as Survey123, FieldGenius, and Leica Captivate enable land surveyors to collect and record data, perform calculations, and generate reports via their smartphones or tablets. Web-based tools such as Google Earth, SketchUp, and QGIS facilitate the creation of maps, models, and visualizations using web browsers which can be integrated with other data sources and applications.

4 Tips for successful digital transformation

Digital transformation is not only about adopting new technologies, but also about changing the culture and mindset of the organization and the industry. For land surveyors wanting to embrace digital transformation and achieve better results, it is important to be open-minded and curious, flexible and adaptable, and collaborative and inclusive. They should be willing to learn new skills and explore new possibilities, adjust to changing requirements, adopt new standards and best practices, recognize the value of teamwork, involve partners in their projects, and share their knowledge. Furthermore, they should not be afraid to experiment and innovate, update their tools and platforms as needed, foster a culture of trust and respect among their colleagues and stakeholders.

5 Future trends and opportunities

Digital technologies are constantly evolving and improving, presenting land surveyors and their partners with new opportunities and challenges. Artificial intelligence and machine learning can assist land surveyors in analyzing and interpreting data, automating tasks, optimizing workflows, and generating insights. Augmented reality and virtual reality can also improve the visualization and communication of surveying data, models, and reports, while providing users with immersive experiences. Blockchain and smart contracts can also be used to verify land surveying data, documents, and transactions, as well as ensure their transparency and security.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?