Abstract

A Field Guide to Geodesy for GIS Professionals and Surveyors
Track: Surveying
Author(s): Michael Dennis

Geodesy provides the framework needed to reliably combine, analyze, manage, and manipulate spatial data. It is particularly important for integrating high-accuracy (survey) data into a GIS, and it is essential for correctly using GPS data.

This presentation will show the central role of geodesy in building a spatial infrastructure by explaining geodetic principles and terminology; providing examples of positioning errors due to neglecting geodesy; showing how to reduce blind reliance on GIS and GPS software; and providing practical information and tools. Topics include geodetic and vertical datums, map projections, "ground" coordinate systems, spatial accuracy assessment, information resources, and documentation (metadata). The emphasis will be on concepts and qualitative (but rigorously correct) visualization using diagrams and maps. The intent is for the presentation to serve as a "field guide" to help GIS professionals and surveyors navigate the geodetic wilderness and realize the full potential of their spatial data.

Michael Dennis
Geodetic Analysis, LLC
8775 S Cluff Ranch Road
Pima , Arizona 85543
United States
Phone: 928-322-0956
E-mail: mld@geodeticanalysis.com