TL;DR: In 2022, surveying in Oklahoma is shifting toward faster field work and more usable data. This year’s key trends are mobile 3D laser scanning, drone (UAV) mapping, network RTK GPS, preparation for the national datum update, and cloud-based data delivery. These tools shorten timelines and reduce site visits. However, a licensed surveyor is still essential for interpreting the data, especially for boundary work.
The experts in the land surveying Tulsa industry are constantly perfecting new methods and technologies to conduct surveys more accurately, efficiently, and quickly. When looking for a surveying company to work with, it helps to research the firm to see if they have access to the latest equipment and technology. Two methods that are quickly growing more prominent in land surveying are mobile 3D laser scanning and unmanned aerial vehicle mapping. In 2022, network RTK GPS, preparation for a nationwide datum update, and cloud-based data sharing are also changing how projects are surveyed and delivered.
Land Surveying Oklahoma Trend: Mobile 3D Laser Scanning
Although technicians have utilized 3D laser scanning technology for years now, new trends constantly change how it is used. Traditional scanners sit on a tripod and capture one location at a time. Mobile scanners, which are becoming far more common this year, are mounted on vehicles, carried in backpacks, or held by hand, and they capture millions of measurement points continuously as they move through a site. The result is a point cloud: a detailed 3D record of roads, buildings, and terrain.
New techniques and technological upgrades make this tool more important to the surveying industry every year. In particular, it helps with project timelines by reducing the amount of time spent mapping in the field. Additionally, the highly accurate data allows for a more efficient project workflow during the design and production stages. 3D laser scanning technology is now capable of providing key data more quickly and accurately than ever; additionally, upgrades to 3D laser scanning as a whole make this information more readable and understandable.
At Sisemore & Associates, our 3D laser scanning technology works alongside our aerial mapping services, which contributes to increased land surveying Oklahoma speed. Additionally, scan data can be shared digitally, so engineers and designers can review site conditions without returning to the field.
Land Surveying Tulsa Trend: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Mapping
Also called UAVs or drones, unmanned aerial vehicles are an important and useful tool. While UAVs have been used to conduct surveys for years, the upgraded techniques, methods, and technologies allow technicians to use these tools to conduct surveys more accurately and quickly. At Sisemore & Associates, our team has extensive experience with UAV mapping, the benefits of which include increased accuracy, improved technician safety, and increased survey speed.
While accuracy is always a top priority, speed and technician safety are equally important. The use of UAVs increases survey speed by reducing the need to carry equipment across a property to map it out manually. Instead of this process taking several days, a UAV can map out the area in a matter of hours, depending on the site’s size and conditions. By reducing the need to maneuver across potentially dangerous areas, such as steep slopes, creek banks, and active construction sites, drones also make field work safer.
How Drones Collect Survey Data
Drones collect data in two main ways:
- Photogrammetry: stitches overlapping photos into maps and surface models.
- Drone-mounted LiDAR: uses laser pulses that can reach the ground through gaps in tree cover, making it useful on the wooded properties common in eastern Oklahoma. It has become more affordable and widely adopted in 2022.
Both methods rely on ground control points measured by the survey crew to tie the aerial data to accurate coordinates.
Network RTK GPS
Real-time kinematic (RTK) GPS gives surveyors centimeter-level positions in the field. Traditionally, crews had to set up their own base station on every job. In 2022, more firms are relying on network RTK, which draws corrections from a system of permanent reference stations instead, so crews can start collecting accurate data faster. For clients, this means quicker control setup and consistent positioning across large or spread-out projects.
Preparing for the National Datum Update
Every survey coordinate and elevation is measured relative to a reference system called a datum. The National Geodetic Survey has announced plans to replace the current horizontal and vertical datums, NAD 83 and NAVD 88, with new, more accurate reference frames named NATRF2022 and NAPGD2022. When the change takes effect, published coordinates and elevations will shift.
For property owners and developers, this will matter most when comparing old and new surveys, flood elevations, or engineering plans. Surveyors are already preparing by clearly documenting which datum each survey uses, so data can be converted accurately once the new system is in place.
Cloud Data Delivery
Survey deliverables increasingly arrive as shareable digital models instead of only paper plats or static PDFs. In 2022, project teams can view point clouds, surface models, and drawings in a web browser. Processing software can also automatically sort point cloud data into ground, vegetation, buildings, and other features. This speeds up the time from field work to finished drawings, while the surveyor still reviews and verifies the results.
Looking for a Surveying Company Near Me?
Before looking for a “surveying company near me,” it helps to first determine which specific type you need in order to get the data required. For example:
- Do you need to resolve a disagreement involving property boundaries?
- Do you need to determine plot sizes for development?
- Do you need to research topography before building a structure?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are drone surveys as accurate as traditional surveys?
When flown with proper ground control and processed by a qualified team, drone surveys produce highly accurate topographic data. Accuracy depends on the equipment, flight plan, ground cover, and control network, so your surveyor will match the method to your project’s requirements.
Can a drone survey replace a boundary survey?
No. Drones are excellent for mapping terrain and site features, but legal boundaries require a licensed surveyor to research records and locate property corners on the ground.
What is a point cloud?
A point cloud is a collection of millions of 3D measurement points captured by a laser scanner or drone. Together, the points form a detailed digital model of a site that engineers and designers can measure and build from.
Key Takeaways
- Mobile 3D laser scanning captures detailed site data while moving, reducing time in the field.
- Drone mapping covers large or hazardous sites quickly and safely, using photogrammetry or LiDAR.
- Network RTK GPS provides centimeter-level positioning without a base station on every job.
- The planned national datum update will shift published coordinates and elevations, so clear datum documentation matters.
- New technology improves speed and data quality, but the right method depends on your project, and boundary work still requires a licensed surveyor on the ground.
Partner With a Team That Uses the Right Tools
Whichever method fits your project, at Sisemore & Associates, accuracy is our priority. Since 1995, we’ve combined local experience with modern surveying technology across Oklahoma. We will work with you to determine what methods and technology are best suited for your property to ensure that your project will have an efficient workflow. Get in touch to learn more about our services or to start your next project with Sisemore & Associates.