FOCUSSING ON TECHNOLOGY: SURVEY AND SPATIAL SECTOR PERSPECTIVES Technology advancements in the survey and spatial sectors are accelerating rapidly with new applications having a significant impact on industries around the world. With demand increasing in many different sectors, Surveying + Spatial asked three high-profile technology firms what major themes, trends and current challenges are emerging in the technology sector now and into the future.
How can technology contribute to our sustainable future?
operate with the right technology,
Bruce Robinson, Survey Manager, Global Survey
and edge computing, it is possible
S
urvey and spatial technology can help our industry create workflows that match New
Zealand’s sustainability goals. The objective is to do things in a smarter way so that everyone can benefit now and for generations into the future. Part of this process is to look beyond what we believe our clients’ needs are, and to understand what our clients’ requirements are and be able to deliver a solution that enables everyone’s goals to be met. Technology is making it easier for us to achieve these solutions and those who adopt early will reap the benefits in the long term. Hardware automation and autonomy are only part of the technology puzzle; the movement and re-use of data is where true benefits can be found and delivered. For example, by moving your data rather than your people with your data, it is possible to speed up processes and contribute towards sustainable development. If a survey crew is equipped to
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do they really need to come into the office, or can they go straight to site? If a crew have the tools at their hands (hardware and software), with current onboard computing power to do on-site processing of the data and produce reports and deliverables before leaving a site. Current reality capture technology enables data to be used for more than just design purposes. It can be used for client/public engagement, virtual site visits, facilities management and much more. While GNSS drives external positioning, visual positioning systems (an emerging technology) enable precise indoor positioning to occur; this further drives the need for correct as-built information to be captured and the requirement for the integration of both horizontal and vertical BIM. An accurate as-built is critical for ongoing maintenance and for safety of life. The right technology and a company’s effective digital strategy that is aligned with New Zealand’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Developments Goal’s plan (https://sdgs.un.org/goals) can certainly help with client retention, growth and strength of the industry.
