How do you manage the quality and consistency of geodetic survey data across different platforms and formats?

2 Choose your tools wisely

Another important step to manage the quality and consistency of geodetic survey data is to choose your tools wisely. Tools are the hardware and software that you use to collect, process, and store data. Hardware includes the instruments and devices that you use to measure and record data, such as GPS receivers, total stations, levels, and scanners. Software includes the programs and applications that you use to analyze and manipulate data, such as geodetic software, geographic information systems (GIS), and data converters. You should choose tools that are compatible with your standards and specifications, as well as with your project's objectives and budget. You should also ensure that your tools are calibrated, updated, and maintained regularly to avoid errors and inconsistencies.

3 Check your data quality

A third step to manage the quality and consistency of geodetic survey data is to check your data quality. Data quality is the degree to which data meets the expectations and requirements of the users and stakeholders. Data quality can be assessed by using various methods and indicators, such as quality control, quality assurance, metadata, and error analysis. Quality control is the process of detecting and correcting errors and anomalies in data during or after collection. Quality assurance is the process of verifying and validating that data meets the standards and specifications. Metadata is the information that describes the characteristics and context of data, such as source, date, method, and accuracy. Error analysis is the process of estimating and quantifying the uncertainties and variations in data due to various factors, such as measurement, sampling, and modeling.

4 Organize your data management

A fourth step to manage the quality and consistency of geodetic survey data is to organize your data management. Data management is the process of planning, implementing, and monitoring the activities and resources related to data throughout its lifecycle. Data management involves several aspects, such as data collection, data processing, data storage, data sharing, and data archiving. You should organize your data management by following best practices and principles, such as data governance, data security, data documentation, and data interoperability. Data governance is the framework that defines the roles and responsibilities of data owners, custodians, and users. Data security is the protection of data from unauthorized access, modification, or loss. Data documentation is the creation and maintenance of records and reports that describe the data and its quality. Data interoperability is the ability of data to be exchanged and used across different platforms and formats.

5 Learn from your peers

A fifth step to manage the quality and consistency of geodetic survey data is to learn from your peers. Peers are the other professionals and experts who are involved in geodetic surveying or related fields. Learning from your peers can help you improve your skills, knowledge, and practices by sharing experiences, insights, and feedback. You can learn from your peers by participating in various activities and platforms, such as training, workshops, conferences, publications, forums, and networks. For example, the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG) is a global organization that promotes the development and recognition of surveying and geomatics. The FIG organizes events and publications that cover topics such as geodesy, cadastre, spatial data infrastructure, and standards.

6 Keep up with the trends

A sixth step to manage the quality and consistency of geodetic survey data is to keep up with the trends. Trends are the changes and developments that affect geodetic surveying or related fields. Keeping up with the trends can help you adapt to the evolving needs and expectations of the users and stakeholders, as well as to the emerging opportunities and challenges. You can keep up with the trends by following the latest news, research, innovations, and technologies that are relevant to geodetic surveying. For example, some of the current trends in geodetic surveying include global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), digital elevation models (DEM), laser scanning, drone mapping, and artificial intelligence.

7 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?