GIS Day 2020: mapping our changing world

Mapping the constant state of change

The content of Fugro’s maps and frequency of their updates may differ from those associated with election results but they are strikingly similar in concept. Every map is only as good as its source data. For a GIS (geographic information system), that means high quality Geo-data because, without it, identifying change and mitigating future risk are impossible. 

Take Fugro’s mapping of coastal communities. When a hurricane ravages a coastline, it’s easy to visually assess damage but without the initial baseline data, we’re unable to convey the severity and location of change. Similarly, when local officials want to understand storm surge potential and flood extent, they require accurate Geo-data to perform definitive simulations and scenario planning.

Fugro’s Geo-data solutions

Fugro offers a number of market-specific solutions that combine high-resolution, high-accuracy data acquisition capabilities with efficient data analysis and reporting tools. As a result, we provide our clients with valuable insights about the changing nature of land and assets for improved decision making. Examples include:

• Public sector: We collect and integrate geospatial, geophysical and geotechnical information into a 3D environment for accurate and efficient real-time visualisation that helps mitigate risk and safeguard people, property and the environment. As an example, for emergency management, SIMmetry™ supports flood, fire and rescue simulations, safety perimeters and line of sight analysis for route planning. Learn more about Fugro SIMmetry™

• Power companies: We combine 3D mapping techniques with cutting-edge machine learning and cloud computing to create a ‘digital twin’ of power transmission and distribution assets to help clients streamline vegetation management, optimise maintenance planning and operations, and improve their strategic asset management. Learn more about Fugro Roames®

• Rail owners: We utilise advanced mapping techniques to create a 3D virtual model of the entire railway corridor, allowing designers, engineers and maintenance crews to visualise, plan and execute works with proven efficiency. As a result, our Fugro RailData® solution minimises disruption to rail services and exposure to trackside risks. Learn more about Fugro RailData®

• Transportation agencies: We collect timely, accurate and high-quality pavement data to support informed roadway management decisions, including early intervention and efficient maintenance, to extend the performance life of roads. This data and analysis lead to safer, more sustainable roadways. Learn more about Fugro ARAN®

In addition to these market-specific solutions, Fugro also delivers an extensive range of fit-for-purpose map products and GIS datasets to support public and private sector projects including coastal resiliency, natural resources management, land-use planning and infrastructure development.

More to come…

Accurate and comprehensive Geo-data brings order to our world, helping us understand where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re headed. Fugro is committed to continually advance the way we collect, process, visualise and simulate Geo-data. With an emphasis on autonomous systems, cloud computing and machine learning, we are increasing the speed by which we can deliver complex Geo-datasets, and we are doing this in a way that is as accessible—and riveting—as an election results map in a highly contested race.

Did you know?

• GIS Day was first celebrated in 1999

• The first computerised GIS was developed in 1963 by Canadian Roger Tomlinson

• GIS Day is celebrated worldwide on the Wednesday of the annual Geography Awareness Week