Land surveying and mapping
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The best decision is an informed decision. That’s why we deliver the power of Geo-data into your hands – so you’ll be equipped with expert insights and advice. How do we collect this data? Through mapping and surveying our built and natural environment, from the depths of the ocean all the way to space providing accurate geospatial data for your business. Our capabilities include aerial mapping, satellite monitoring and mapping, geospatial GIS solutions and more. Our geospatial data capabilities are crucial for data analysis and decision-making, enabling precise agronomic recommendations and broader insights through geospatial analysis. After collection, we transform the data into valuable information and solutions. So, you can be sure your assets or infrastructure is designed, built, and operated safely and sustainably.
Pooja Mahapatra
Global lead - Surveying and mapping
More information on surveying and mapping
What is geospatial mapping?
Geospatial mapping is a powerful method for visualising spatial data, enabling the creation of customised maps tailored to specific needs. At its core, geospatial mapping aims to represent items with geographic coordinates within a geographical framework, providing a visual representation of the physical world.
With the advent of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and advanced geospatial technologies, geospatial mapping has evolved into a sophisticated tool for analysing and visualising geospatial data. Today within Fugro, it plays a crucial role in numerous fields, from urban planning to environmental monitoring, offering unparalleled insights into the geospatial data relationships that shape our world.
What are the different types of surveying?
Surveying is a diverse field that encompasses several specialised types, each serving a unique purpose.
Land surveying is perhaps the most well-known, involving the precise determination of property boundaries. This type of surveying is essential for real estate transactions, construction projects, and legal disputes.
Geodetic surveying, on the other hand, focuses on measuring large portions of the Earth’s surface, considering the curvature of the Earth. This type of surveying is crucial for creating accurate maps and models of the Earth’s surface.
Cadastral surveying involves the creation of detailed maps and plans of land ownership, which are essential for property registration and land management.
Topographic surveying measures the shape and features of the Earth’s surface, providing detailed information about the terrain.
Boundary surveying, similar to land surveying, specifically focuses on determining the exact boundaries of a property.
Topographic surveys involve mapping the surface features of an area, including natural elements like terrain elevation, bodies of water, and vegetation, as well as man-made structures like roads and buildings.
We use advanced technologies such as LiDAR, drones, and satellite imagery to conduct high-precision topographic surveys. Each type of surveying plays a vital role in various industries, from civil engineering to environmental conservation.
Geospatial data and analysis
Geospatial data is a cornerstone of geospatial mapping, encompassing any data that includes locational information, such as addresses, ZIP codes, or latitude and longitude coordinates. This data can be analysed using a variety of techniques to uncover patterns and relationships between different spatial features.
Geospatial data analysis is a powerful tool for applications such as urban planning, where it can help optimise the layout of cities, or environmental monitoring, where it can track changes in ecosystems over time.
In emergency response, geospatial data analytics can provide critical insights into the best routes for evacuation or the most affected areas needing aid. By applying statistical and mathematical techniques, geospatial data analytics transforms raw data into actionable insights, enabling better decision-making and more efficient resource management.
What is a Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
A Geographic Information System (GIS) is an advanced computer system designed for capturing, storing, querying, analysing, and displaying geospatial data. GIS is not just a single tool but a comprehensive process that involves the systematic gathering, storing, analysing, and presenting of geographic information. This process helps users gain valuable insights, make informed decisions, and solve complex spatial problems.
A typical GIS consists of several key components: hardware, software, data, and people. The hardware includes the physical devices used to collect and process data, while the software provides the tools for data analysis and visualisation.
The data component encompasses all the geospatial information that is collected and managed, and the people component refers to the skilled professionals who operate the system and interpret the results. Together, these components enable GIS to provide a powerful platform for geospatial data analysis and decision-making.
Surveying techniques and technologies
We harness the power of advanced geospatial technologies and surveying techniques and technologies to deliver precise and reliable geospatial data for our clients. Our methods have evolved from traditional triangulation and levelling to cutting-edge innovations that drive efficiency and accuracy in every project.
Modern Instruments and Techniques
Our team utilises state-of-the-art tools, including total stations that combine electronic distance measurement with angle measurement, and GPS technology that leverages satellite signals for pinpoint accuracy. These instruments allow us to measure distances, angles, and elevations with unmatched precision.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
We integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to enhance data collection, management, and analysis. Our GIS capabilities enable us to visualise complex geospatial information, facilitating informed decision-making across various industries.
Remote Sensing Technologies
We also employ advanced remote sensing technologies, such as aerial photography and satellite imagery, to efficiently gather data over expansive areas. These methods ensure rapid and accurate data collection, enabling us to deliver timely insights to our clients.
Revolutionising Surveying
Our commitment to innovation in surveying has transformed how data is collected and analysed, supporting better decision-making in infrastructure development, environmental assessments, and resource management. We provide our clients with the most reliable and advanced surveying solutions tailored to their specific needs.
With our expertise in surveying techniques and technologies we can enhance your project outcomes.
LiDAR classification accuracy in geospatial data analysis
At Fugro, we employ advanced LiDAR technology to capture high-resolution geospatial data, providing unparalleled accuracy in surveying and mapping projects. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) enables the collection of detailed topographic information by emitting laser pulses to measure distances and generate precise 3D models of the Earth's surface.
Our cutting-edge geospatial technologies, including LiDAR, play a critical role in modern surveying, allowing us to create accurate 3D models and maps that visualize environmental factors. These models are essential for understanding complex geospatial themes, patterns, and trends, providing actionable insights for industries ranging from infrastructure development to environmental monitoring.
To enhance data collection, we integrate LiDAR with GPS and drones, enabling efficient and precise surveys over large areas. This combination allows us to capture high-quality data even in challenging terrains, significantly improving the accuracy of geospatial analysis. The integration of these technologies also enables faster data acquisition, reducing project timelines without compromising on quality.
At Fugro, we leverage our extensive geospatial expertise to deliver comprehensive digital twin solutions.
By integrating advanced technologies such as LiDAR, drones, and satellite imagery, we create highly accurate and dynamic digital replicas of physical assets and environments. These digital twins provide a real-time, interactive platform for monitoring, analysis, and decision-making, enabling clients to optimize operations, enhance safety, and ensure sustainability.
Our digital twin solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs of various industries, from infrastructure and urban planning to environmental management, offering unparalleled insights and efficiencies.
Key figures
square miles in North America
coverage of Sense.Lidar®
% lidar classification accuracy
% faster point cloud classification
than using traditional techniques
Case study
Establishing a National Geodetic Reference Frame in Uganda
We established an accurate national geodetic reference frame in Uganda, comprising 12 CORS and 426 geodetic markers.
Case study
Malleefowl mounds mapped using remote sensing technology
Mount Gibson Gold Project is approximately 280 km northeast of Perth, Australia. This region is home to Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata), an indigenous ground-dwelling bird listed as vulnerable.
Case study
Texas coastal Lidar: Mapping in full flow
After Hurricane Harvey, Fugro acquired nearly 10,000 square miles of high-resolution lidar elevation data over Houston, Texas, and the surrounding coast.
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Pooja Mahapatra
Global lead - Surveying and mapping
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Exciting challenges. Unforgettable experiences. Work that helps create a more safe and liveable world. These are a few of the things you’ll find at Fugro. Will you join our global team?