The Bottom Line: When to Invest in New Technology - The investment in productivity-enhancing technology can either be a necessary evil (just to keep you in business) or provide you with a competitive edge; the difference is a matter of timing. A new technology that changes the methods we use to accomplish long-standing tasks can be described as disruptive or paradigm changing. If it helps you get the job done better, faster and more profitably, then it is worth investigating; but when? As it turns out, different organizations do this at different times...

It's All About the Data: Integrating GPS Data Into a Construction Project  - Over the next several articles, I will deal with the uses for data and how to integrate them into your jobs. This issue will address how to get the correct data into the field for use by machines and rovers on the site. First, let's look at a typical legacy job site, one not utilizing GPS in the hands of the contractor. At this point, the job has been bid, won, and plans are in hand...

Machine Control & the Land Surveyor: Opportunities for the Positioning Expert - If your land surveying business, or even part of your business is comprised of construction layout, you most certainly have been affected by machine control technology. If you haven't seen the effects, you definitely will in the near future. Machine control technology is here to stay and its impact on the land surveyor is only going to increase as time goes by...

Data Prep: Tips, Tricks & Techniques: The Value of Data Preparation Services  - We build a lot of data for heavy highway and site construction projects. Over the years working with clients, engineers, grading contractors and fellow data builders, I am asked many questions. While some are unique, there are a handful of questions that come up, time and time again. One of those questions is: "Should engineers provide DTM data for construction?"...

Machine Guidance Sensors: An Overview  - Choosing and purchasing the right Machine Guidance system is an extremely important process (as well as expensive!) and you want to get it right. Part of the decision process when choosing your new Machine Guidance system is based on how well you appreciate the product and its capabilities as defined in the product specifications...