FAQ: GIS and Surveying

What is the difference between GIS and surveying?

"GIS provides a graphical representation of the real world. GIS can be used to perform research and analysis on 'what if' scenarios. Surveying is a profession that involves more precise measurements of the earth's surface. Surveys also produce a legal document. GIS should not be used or held as legally authoritative. GIS should only be used to evaluate a particular problem, and in some cases may provide the need for a survey."

Learon Dalby

How can GIS help land surveyors? Where can land surveyors in Arkansas find GIS sites to aid in their work?

"There are certainly lots of articles about GIS and Surveying in the trade magazines, POB: Point of Beginning and Professional Surveyor, as well as in the Journal of the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping."

Richie Pierce