How can you ensure geologic maps are accurate and reliable?

2 Assess the scale

The second step to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your geologic maps is to assess the scale of the maps and the data. The scale of a geologic map indicates the ratio between the distance on the map and the distance on the ground. The scale affects the level of detail and accuracy that can be shown on the map, as well as the size and shape of the features. A large-scale map (such as 1:10,000) shows more detail and accuracy than a small-scale map (such as 1:1,000,000), but covers a smaller area and may have more distortion. You should choose a geologic map that has a suitable scale for your engineering design purpose, and be aware of the limitations and errors that may arise from scaling up or down the data.

3 Update the data

The third step to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your geologic maps is to update the data as much as possible. Geologic maps are not static, as they may change over time due to natural processes, human activities, or new discoveries. For example, erosion, landslides, earthquakes, mining, or drilling may alter the surface or subsurface geology. New technologies, methods, or data may also improve the understanding and representation of the geology. You should look for the most recent and updated geologic maps available for your area of interest, and check if there are any significant changes or revisions since the original publication. You should also consider updating your own geologic maps by collecting new data, applying new techniques, or incorporating new information.

4 Validate the data

The fourth step to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your geologic maps is to validate the data by comparing them with reality. Geologic maps are not always accurate representations of the actual geology, as they may contain errors, uncertainties, or interpretations. Errors may result from mistakes, inaccuracies, or inconsistencies in the data collection, processing, or mapping. Uncertainties may arise from gaps, variations, or ambiguities in the data or the methods. Interpretations may reflect the assumptions, hypotheses, or opinions of the data collectors or mappers. You should validate your geologic maps by conducting field checks, measurements, tests, or samples to confirm or correct the data. You should also document and communicate the sources, magnitudes, and impacts of the errors, uncertainties, and interpretations on your geologic maps.

5 Visualize the data

The fifth step to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your geologic maps is to visualize the data in an effective and meaningful way. Geologic maps are not only data sources, but also data products, as they communicate the information and knowledge about the geology to the users. The visualization of the data can influence how the users perceive, understand, and use the geologic maps. You should visualize your geologic maps using appropriate symbols, colors, labels, legends, scales, projections, and formats that match the type, level, and purpose of the data. You should also use software tools, such as geographic information systems (GIS), that allow you to manipulate, analyze, and display the data in various ways.

6 Review the data

The sixth step to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your geologic maps is to review the data by seeking feedback and input from others. Geologic maps are not only individual products, but also collaborative products, as they involve the participation and contribution of multiple stakeholders, such as data collectors, mappers, reviewers, editors, publishers, and users. The feedback and input from others can help you improve the quality and usability of your geologic maps. You should review your geologic maps by consulting with experts, peers, clients, or users who have relevant knowledge, experience, or interest in the geology. You should also follow the standards, guidelines, and best practices for geologic mapping that are established by professional organizations, institutions, or agencies.