Gigantic List of GIS Resources and Tools for Land Surveyors

Hello Land Surveyors United Community!

I hope this post finds you all in great spirits and busy with exciting projects. Today, I’m thrilled to share a treasure trove of GIS resources and tools that can significantly enhance our surveying tasks, streamline workflows, and boost productivity. Whether you're a seasoned surveyor or just starting your journey, this list has something for everyone.

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Why GIS Matters for Surveyors

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionized how we collect, analyze, and interpret spatial data. By integrating GIS into our surveying practices, we can achieve higher accuracy, better visualization, and more efficient data management.

Essential GIS Software and Tools

1. ArcGIS by Esri: A powerful suite of software for mapping and spatial analysis. Perfect for creating detailed maps and managing geographic information.
2. QGIS: An open-source alternative to ArcGIS, QGIS offers extensive features for data editing, analysis, and visualization.
3. Google Earth Pro: Great for quick visualizations and basic spatial analysis. It’s free and easy to use.
4. GRASS GIS: An open-source GIS software suite used for geospatial data management and analysis, image processing, and spatial modeling.

Online GIS Resources and Tutorials

1. Esri Training: Offers a variety of courses on ArcGIS, from beginner to advanced levels.
2. QGIS Documentation and Training Manual: Comprehensive resources to help you master QGIS.
3. Coursera and Udemy: Online platforms offering GIS courses from reputed universities and instructors.

Data Sources

1. USGS Earth Explorer: Access to a wide range of satellite imagery and geospatial data.
2. OpenStreetMap: A collaborative project to create a free editable map of the world.
3. Natural Earth Data: Free GIS data for making maps at various scales.

Specialized GIS Tools for Surveyors

1. Global Mapper: A robust GIS data processing application that provides a variety of analysis and visualization tools.
2. DroneDeploy: Aerial mapping software that turns drone data into accurate maps and models.
3. Trimble Business Center: Advanced tools for managing survey and construction data.

Mobile GIS Apps

1. Survey123 for ArcGIS: Allows for efficient field data collection using customizable forms.
2. Collector for ArcGIS: Streamlines field data collection and updating.
3. Locus Map: A versatile app for navigation and outdoor activities, useful for field surveying.

Community and Forums

1. GIS Stack Exchange: A Q&A site for GIS professionals and enthusiasts.
2. Reddit - r/gis: A community for sharing news, questions, and tutorials related to GIS.
3. Land Surveyors United: Our very own community where you can discuss GIS-related topics and share your experiences.

Miscellaneous Tools and Resources

1. GeoDa: An open-source software tool that serves as an introduction to spatial data analysis.
2. Whitebox GAT: A free and open-source geographic information system for geospatial analysis and data visualization.
3. Mapillary: A platform for sharing street-level imagery and extracting map data.

Feel free to dive into these resources and explore the vast potential of GIS in your surveying work. If you have any other recommendations or tools that have been particularly useful to you, please share them in the comments below. Let’s make this list even more comprehensive and beneficial for all our fellow surveyors.

Happy surveying and mapping!