ENHANCING THE PRACTICE OF

SURVEYING AND MAPPING

THROUGH
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
ASSISTED TECHNOLOLIES

Surv. Prof. Joel Izuchukwu Igbokwe fnis

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Purpose of this Lecture::

To sensitise Surveyors on the Potentials

of AI – enabled Technologies in
Surveying and Mapping

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1
Outline
1. Introduction: Trends in the Development of Surveying Techniques

2. What is Artificial Intelligence (AI) ?

3. Areas of Application of AI in Surveying and Mapping

4. AI – Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

5. How AI is Enhancing Surveying and Mapping

6. AI’s Roles in Geospatial Data Acquisition, Processing, Analysis and

Presentation

7. Benefits of AI to Practicing Surveyors

8. Impact of AI – Enabled Surveyors in our National Economy

9. The Way Forward: Making AI Technologies Accessible to Surveyors

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10. Conclusion
1. Introduction: Trends in the Development of Surveying and Mapping
Techniques
Before the 19th Century 20th Century to Present
The 20th century brought a revolution
Early surveying relied on basic tools with Electronic Distance Measurement
like ropes, measuring sticks, chains (EDM), GNSS, Drones, LiDAR technologies.
and tapes and celestial observations. These advancements dramatically
Techniques were rudimentary, often increased accuracy and efficiency in
limited by the available technology. surveying and mapping.

1 2 3

19th Century

The 19th century saw significant advancements with

the introduction of modern instruments like the
Plane Table, Theodolite, Total Stations and leveling
instruments. Magnetic compasses for determining
directions. Also, the advert of GPS, Remote Sensing,
GIS, Echo Sounder and Sonar Technologies
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1. Introduction: Trends in the Development of Surveying and Mapping
Techniques

21st Century: Modern Era

Introduction of AI and Digital
automation. These are transforming
surveying with tools like autonomous
Drones, AI-Driven data processing,
and machine learning for 3D
modeling and Change detection.
Robotic Total stations, AI-enhanced
LiDAR, and GNSS improve precision,
efficiency, and positioning accuracy.
Hydrographic Surveying witnessed
the arrival of Autonomous Unmanned
Hydrographic Vessels.

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 Some Specifics:

i. Photogrammetry

20/35 Years of Digital

70Years of Analogue Analytical Photogrammetry
Photogrammetry Photogrammetry 1990 / 2005 to
1900 to 1970 1970 to 1990 / Date
2005
AI –Enabled
Digital
Photogrammetric
Evolutionary Systems
Revolutionary
Transformation
Transformation
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 2. What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

AI refers to the development of AI offers numerous benefits

Computers/Digital Systems/ Machines across various industries,
capable of performing tasks that professions and applications.
normally require human intelligence. Some of the most common
This includes reasoning, decision- benefits include:
making, problem-solving, learning, and
language understanding. AI is a ➢ Automation of repetitive
technology with human-like problem- tasks.
solving capabilities. AI in action ➢ More and faster insight from
appears to simulate human data.
intelligence—it can recognize images, ➢ Enhanced decision-making.
write poems, and make data-based ➢ Fewer human errors.
predictions. Ultimately, artificial ➢ 24x7 availability.
intelligence is about making software ➢ Reduced physical risks.
smarter for customized user
interactions and complex problem- (www.coursera.org/articles/artificial-
solving. intelligence) preencoded.png
 Geospatial Artificial Intelligence
(geoAI) combines innovations in
spatial science with the rapid growth
of methods in AI and big data. It can
be identified as a three-pillar: data-
driven, knowledge-driven, and
highlights geospatial applications

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Geospatial artificial intelligence (GeoAI) is the application of artificial
intelligence (AI) fused with geospatial data, science, and technology to
accelerate real-world understanding of business opportunities,
environmental impacts, and risks. It involves Organizations modernizing
operations to run at scale that guarantees automated data acquisition,
data processing and geoinformation generation, using approachable
spatial tools and algorithms;

➢ Extract rich geospatial data with deep learning

➢ Save time by automating the extraction, classification, and detection of

information from spatial data such as imagery, video, point clouds, and
text.

➢ Perform predictive analysis using machine learning algorithms

➢ Build more accurate models. Detect clusters, calculate change, find

patterns, and forecast outcomes with spatial algorithms backed by
experts. preencoded.png
Using GeoAI to
extract building
information that
will be used to
estimate the
population of a
settlement.
(www.esri.com)

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➢ GeoAI can model the real world
for prediction.
Aerial imagery of parts of Grenada
was used to automatically extract
buildings and roads, to help identify
the population and infrastructure at
risk of landslides and flooding.
(www.esri.com)

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3. Areas of application of AI in Surveying and Mapping

i. Earth Observation and Remote Sensing

AI algorithms process large satellite

and aerial imagery to monitor land
use, environmental changes, and ii. Geographic Information Systems
natural disasters. Using machine
learning models like Neural AI enhances predictive modelling
Networks, Decision Trees, Random and forecasting by identifying trends
Forests, and K-Means, they predict and patterns in geospatial data. It
patterns and analyze data efficiently also enables real-time monitoring
for Earth mapping and disaster and response through continuous
management. analysis of streaming data (E.g.
Urban and Semi-Urban Development)

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3. Areas of Application of AI in Surveying and Mapping

iii. 3D Point Clouds and Digital Twins

Machine learning and deep learning

techniques are used to interpret 3D
point clouds, creating accurate
digital representations of physical iv. Disaster Monitoring and Analysis
environments.
AI helps in monitoring and analysing
natural disasters such as droughts,
landslides, and floods, providing
valuable insights for efficient
response strategies.

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3. Areas of application of AI in Surveying and Mapping

v. Resource Management

AI aids in managing natural

resources by analysing
spatial data to optimize resource
GeoAI is transforming the geospatial
allocation and usage.
industry by enabling more accurate
and efficient analysis of spatial data,
leading to better decision-making
and improved outcomes in
various fields.

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4. How AI is Enhancing Surveying and Mapping

1 Enhanced Accuracy

➢ Improved Data Analysis: AI accurately identifies patterns and

anomalies in large datasets.
➢ Error Reduction and Efficiency: Automation and machine learning
minimize human errors, enhancing efficiency.
➢ Automated Data Collection: Tools like drones and robotic stations
collect data quickly, reducing time and labor.
➢ Real-Time Processing: AI processes data instantly, enabling
immediate decision-making.
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 4. How AI is Enhancing Surveying and Mapping

2 Advanced Data Management

➢ Big Data Handling: AI can handle and process vast amounts
of geospatial data, making it possible to work with complex
datasets that are beyond human capacity.
➢ Data Integration and Interoperability: AI can seamlessly
integrate data from various sources, ensuring a
comprehensive and cohesive dataset for analysis, mapping
and sharing.
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3 Enhanced Predictive Capabilities

➢ Predictive Modeling: AI can create predictive models to

forecast future trends and changes in the environment,
such as urban growth, deforestation, or natural disasters.

➢ Simulation and Scenario Analysis: AI can simulate

various scenarios based on multidate data, helping
planners and decision-makers to prepare for different
outcomes.

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4. How AI is Enhancing Surveying and Mapping

4 Improved Decision-Making
➢ Data-Driven Insights: AI provides detailed and data-driven insights that
enhance decision-making processes in urban planning, resource
management, and environmental conservation.
➢ Risk Assessment: AI can assess risks and provide early warnings for
potential issues, such as structural weaknesses in buildings or areas prone
to natural disasters, such as gully erosions and flooding.
➢ Cost-Effectiveness / Reduced Operational Costs: Automation and AI tools
reduce the need for manual labour and repetitive tasks, lowering operational
costs.
➢ Resource Optimization: AI optimizes the use of resources, ensuring that
projects are completed more efficiently and within budget. preencoded.png
4. How AI is Enhancing Surveying and Mapping

5 Greater Accessibility and Collaboration

➢ User-Friendly Tools: AI-powered tools simplify operations, making

surveying and mapping accessible to more professionals.
➢ Collaborative Platforms: Cloud-based AI enables real-time teamwork and
data sharing across locations.
➢ New Applications: AI fosters innovation, driving new techniques and
applications in surveying and mapping.
➢ Continuous Improvement: AI systems evolve through learning, improving
effectiveness over time.
➢ Transformational Impact: AI enhances accuracy, efficiency, decision-
making, and innovation while reducing costs, meeting modern geospatial
demands, and supporting sustainable development. preencoded.png
5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

1 AI – Enabled Drones
AI - Enabled drones are equipped with
advanced sensors, computer vision
systems and machine learning algorithms,
to capture high-resolution imageries and
interpret the imageries autonomously to
generate topographic data from point
clouds quickly and efficiently. This is very
ideal for Surveying and Mapping, Map
Update and Revision, Enumeration Area
Demarcation in Population and
Demographic Studies and for
Environmental Monitoring.
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5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

2 Robotic Total Stations

Robotic total stations use a

combination of trigonometrical
principles and triangulation to
measure angles, distances, and
elevations, and autonomously use
the data to create detailed maps,
topographic and hydrologic models:
They are very useful in surveying
mining sites, Construction sites,
tracking earth movement in mining
areas, and As-Built Surveys in Urban
and Semi-Urban Environments.
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5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

A Robotic Total Station has the

following built – in features and
components:
➢ Telescope
➢ Mounted Controller with Screen
➢ Laser – Assisted EDM
➢ On-Board Computer that
computes triangulations and
collects data real-time and stores
data
➢ Built – calibration tool, for self
calibration.
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5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

3 Global Navigation Satellite System (Example: GPS )

AI – enabled GNSS enhances positioning

accuracy, providing real-time, high-
precision location data. Very Useful in
Geodetic Control Surveys and Structural
Deformation Analysis in Bridges and
Buildings. It enhances navigation
accuracy, optimizing routing algorithms,
predicting traffic patterns, and improving
user experience through features like
voice commands and personalized
recommendations. They are installed
with machine learning algorithms, deep
learning algorithm, and data analytics to
continually enhance their performance
and adaptability to changing conditions.
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5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

4 LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)

A LiDAR Data Acquisition

System is made up of a
Laser, Scanner and specially
configured GPS, Inertial
Navigation System and on –
board Computer. LiDAR are
usually mounted on Airplanes
or Helicopters for capturing
topographic and bathymetric
data. AI algorithms, process
LiDAR data to create detailed
3D models of terrain and
structures, used for
topographic mapping, as well
as topography of water beds
for bathymetric mapping.
vegetation analysis, and
urban planning. preencoded.png
5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

5 Geographic Information System (GIS)

AI integrates with GIS to

improve data analysis and
visualization, enhancing
predictive modeling,
Infrastructure Suitability
analysis and Locational
analysis, Transportation
Routing Analysis in Urban
Areas (Bus Rapid Transit
System) and spatial
analysis, such as extent of
influence, Areas of Disease
spread and prevalence

GIS Suitability Analysis for Health Facility in Greater PH City.

(Geoinformatics Laboratory, Department of Surveying and
Geoinformatics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka)
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5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

6 Remote Sensing

AI enhances the
interpretation of satellite
images, identifying land use
changes,
natural resource
management, and
environmental monitoring like
Neural Networks, Decision Trees,
Random Forests, and K-Means .
Machine learning models
analyse large volumes of
imagery for precise insights
on patterns, trends and
developments from remotely
sensed images.

Onitsha from Medium Resolution and High-Resolution Satellite

Images
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AI’s
Machine
Learning
Algorithms

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5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

7 Building Information Modeling (BIM)

BIM uses digital systems to
create 3D model of buildings
that includes their physical and
functional characteristics. This
model includes information like
construction sequencing, cost,
and maintenance lifecycle
management. Combines 3D
modelling with AI algorithms to
manage
and visualize building data
throughout the lifecycle. It is
used in Architectural Design,
Construction of Buildings and
post – construction
maintenance of Buildings.
Surveyors use BIM to monitor
structural deformation in
Buildings preencoded.png
5. AI-Enabled Technologies in Surveying and Mapping

8 Autonomous Hydrographic Vessels

Autonomous Hydrographic
Survey Vessels are used
to carry out bathymetry
surveys in coastal areas
and oceans.. They can
also be AI powered to
produce seamlessly
bathymetric map of
coastal areas and oceans.
They are usually equipped
with single or multi beam
Sonars, as well as
different kinds of
hydrographic and
M40 Autonomous Hydrographic Survey Vessel
monitoring instruments.
(Unmanned System Technology.com) preencoded.png
6. AI's Role in Geospatial Data Acquisition, Processing, Analysis
and Presentation

i. Data Acquisition ii. Data Processing and Analysis

AI-powered drones, Robotic Total AI tools streamline processing and

Station, LiDAR, and other analysis. Automated data cleaning,
technologies work autonomously to pattern recognition, and predictive
enhance the accuracy, efficiency, analytics provide deeper insights
and scope of data collection, from geospatial data.
capturing detailed information about
the environment.

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6. AI's Role in Geospatial Data Acquisition,
Processing, Analysis and Presentation

➢ 3D Modeling and Visualization: AI generates

iii. Geoinformation Presentation realistic 3D models of terrains, cities, and
structures for urban planning, architecture,
AI technologies enhance the and environmental studies.
visualization and presentation ➢ Interactive Maps: AI-powered GIS platforms
of geospatial data, making it create dynamic, interactive maps with real-
accessible and time data, historical trends, and predictive
understandable: models.
➢ Automated Reporting: AI produces automated
reports and visualizations, simplifying the
communication of key geospatial insights for
decision-making.
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6. AI's Role in Geospatial Data Acquisition, Processing, Analysis
and Presentation

2000 2010 2020

This is demonstrated in the Decision Tree-Based Mapping of developed areas in the FCT, Nigeria
between 2000 and 2020, which enhances the visualization and assessment of development trends
(Geoinformatics Laboratory, Department of Surveying and Geoinformatics,
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka). preencoded.png
 6. AI's Role in Geospatial Data Acquisition, Processing, and
Analysis and Presentation

1990 2000 2010 2020

Similarly, the Artificial Neural Net-based

Growth Predictive Analysis for Osogbo,
Osun State provides a future landscape
outlook based on developmental trends.
(Geoinformatics Laboratory, Department of
Surveying and Geoinformatics, Nnamdi
Azikiwe University, Awka)
2040 Prediction preencoded.png
6. AI's Role in Geospatial Data
Acquisition, Processing, and
Analysis and Presentation

(a.) Machine Learning Modelling of High – Risk (b.) Machine Learning Flood Frequency
Flooding in Asaba Capital Territory, Delta State Modelling in Awka, Capital of Anambra
State.
AI ‘s Machine learning Algorithm-Random Forest used to interpret the impact
of Flooding from Satellite Images (Geoinformatics Laboratory, Nnamdi Azikiwe
University, Awka).
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6. AI's Role in Geospatial Data Acquisition, Processing, and
Analysis and Presentation

Support Vector Machine (SVM) Interpretation of

the Impact of Gully Erosion from satellite
Images, in South East Nigeria (Geoinformatics
Laboratory, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka)

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 1986 2000 2004

Monitoring the Impact of Settlements Encroachment into the Akankpa Forest

Reserve, Cross River State (Geoinformatics Laboratory, Department of
Surveying and Geoinformatics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka) preencoded.png
7. Benefits of AI to Practicing
Surveyors

i. Increased Efficiency ii. Improved Accuracy

and Precision
Automated data collection and real-
time processing reduce the time AI algorithms can analyze data with
and labor required for surveys, high precision, identifying patterns
allowing surveyors to complete and anomalies missed by human
projects more quickly and analysts, ensuring accuracy and
efficiently. reliability.

iii. Cost Reduction iv. Competitive Advantage

Automation and efficient data Utilizing cutting-edge AI
processing reduce the need for technologies can differentiate
manual labor and repetitive tasks, surveyors in a competitive market,
minimizing operational costs and offering advanced services and
maximizing profitability. attracting more clients.
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7. Benefits of AI for Practicing
Surveyors

v. Value Addition vi. Better Decision-

Making
AI-assisted technologies enhance
surveyors' accuracy, efficiency, and
AI-driven predictive models help
effectiveness, leading to better
surveyors anticipate future
decision-making, improved
trends and make informed
planning, and increased
decisions.
profitability, thereby adding value to
their practice

vii. Increased Profitability viii. Enhanced Data

Management
Reliable and accurate data
increases client satisfaction, AI facilitates the integration of
leading various data sources, creating
to repeat business and referrals. comprehensive datasets that
provide deeper insights.
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8. Benefits of AI – Enabled Surveyors to our National
Economy

i. By leveraging GeoAI, Surveyors can assist the State and Local

Governments to model the impact of urban development and Urban
Sprawl, understand the availability of resources and how to distribute the
resources to the population, forecast road and infrastructure deterioration,
and identify land-use change (such as new building and road
developments) and then proactively take action.

ii. Utilizing AI-Enabled Technologies, Surveyors can assist the Federal and
State Governments in the proper management of Natural resources. For
example, in the area of precision agriculture, the oil and gas industry to
monitor assets through automated extraction of flares, new well pads, or
field access roads, the Forestry, to map volumes and species of trees
without a time-consuming on-site inspection, etc.

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iii. By leveraging GeoAI, Surveyors can assist the Federal Government,
through the OSGoF, to ensure timely update and revision of existing
national and sub-national maps and production of needed medium and
large – scaled maps of different parts of the country, without
cumbersome conventional surveying techniques.

iv. In National Defence and Intelligence: AI – Enabled Technologies equip

the Surveyors to support national defence and activity-based
intelligence efforts by automating how our various intelligence Agencies
analyse information related to events, entities, surveillance video, and
remotely sensed data, thereby satisfying real –time spatial data needs

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v. By Leveraging GeoAI, Surveyors can assist Federal, State and Local
Governments ensure safety of lives and properties by providing timely
spatial data as it relates to banditry and terrorism, traffic accidents,
emergency response, and disaster management. Surveyors can provide
predictions and forecasts with AI-Technologies on where Banditry, terrorism,
road accidents, fire outbreaks, flooding and other natural disasters are likely
to occur and optimizing emergency response times. Damaged infrastructure
and navigable roads can be identified quickly to help allocate first
responders.

vi. With GeoAI, Surveyors can provide the spatial data needed in the
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) by extracting these data
timely from satellite and aerial imagery. The data will allow decision-makers to
improve project management, building Information management, identify
potential risks, and optimize building performance and maintenance.
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9. The Way Forward: Making AI Technologies
Accessible to Surveyors

Top Players

1 Partnerships and Large Survey Firms

2 Training and Capacity Building

3 Reaching Out and Advocacy

While AI technologies offer immense potentials, there are

challenges in accessibility and adoption. Partnerships, training,
and advocacy are key to bridging the gap and fostering a future
where AI empowers surveyors.
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9. 1 Forming Partnership and Large Survey Firms

Forming Partnerships and Large Survey Firms can offer several advantages
that help practicing surveyors become more competitive in today's rapidly
evolving industry and hash economic environment.

➢ By pooling resources together in such partnerships, surveyors will have the

capital to invest in cutting-edge technologies like AI-enabled Drones,
Robotic Total Stations, AI – Enabled GNSS, and AI-Enabled LiDAR, which
one-man survey firms may not afford individually.

➢ Pooling resources allows firms to bring together a diverse set of skills and
expertise, enhancing service quality and innovation. Such firms can easily
employ young people who have the required skills and expertise in these
cutting-edge technologies and pay them well.

➢ Large firms benefit from economies of scale, reducing per-unit costs. This
makes high-quality services more affordable for clients. preencoded.png
➢ Larger Survey Firms can offer a wide range of services, including advanced
geospatial analysis, environmental consulting, and project management,
attracting a broader client base.

➢ Partnerships allow Firms to offer integrated solutions, combining Surveying with

engineering Construction, Real Estate, Urban Planning, and other services.

➢ Large Survey Firms and Partnerships can operate in multiple locations,

expanding their market reach and client base, thus having geographical spread.

➢ A well-known Large Survey Firm with a reputation for quality can attract more
clients and high-profile projects.

➢ Larger Survey firms can invest in research and development on new

technologies, staying ahead of industry trends and technological advancements.

➢ They can attract top talents by offering better career prospects, training, and
development opportunities. preencoded.png
9. 2 Training, Re-training and Capacity Building

Surveyors must Stay Updated with Industry Trends, through the Mandatory
Continuing Professional Development (MCPD). Regular professional development
courses will help surveyors to stay current with the latest technologies,
methodologies, and industry standards. It may be necessary to attend
Certifications courses, and obtain relevant certifications that validate their
expertise and adherence to professional standards.

➢ Since development of new technologies is dynamic, there is need for

surveyors to Invest in training and re-training for the latest surveying
technologies, such as AI - Enabled Drones, Robotic Total Stations, LiDAR,
GNSS, and AI-powered spatial data processing tools.

➢ Other forms of training that may be explored include specialized workshops

and seminars, for focused learning and Hands – on Experience.

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9. 3 Reaching out and Advocacy

Reaching out and advocacy are essential for advancing the surveying
profession and encouraging the adoption of modern technologies. Reaching
out and advocacy play crucial roles in promoting the adoption of modern
technologies in surveying and attract the much needed government
patronage.

➢ They help create a supportive environment for innovation, ensure

professionals are well-equipped and knowledgeable, and enhance the overall
impact and image of the surveying profession.

➢ Advocacy efforts can help educate the public about the importance of
surveying and the benefits of modern technologies, such as AI-enabled
technologies

➢ Highlighting the advantages of new technologies within the surveying

community encourages professionals to adopt and integrate these tools into
their practice.
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9. 3 Reaching out and Advocacy
➢ Advocacy can influence government policies and regulations to
support the adoption of modern technologies in surveying,
including funding for research and development.

➢ Reaching out to Policy Makers in Government will attract the

needed funds. Surveyors must expand their horizon by joining high
impact politics and political parties. Mix up with the power
brokers in Federal and State Governments and sell survey
products to them. Unless the policy makers understand how
timely and up-to date survey products will positively impact their
operations, they will not vote money for such. It is our duty to get
it across to them.

➢ Networking and Knowledge Sharing is part of reaching out.

Organizing events where professionals can share knowledge,
experiences, and best practices related to modern technologies in
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10. Conclusion: The Era of AI in Surveying, Mapping and
Geoinformatics is here

The integration of AI – Enabled Technologies

into surveying and mapping marks a new era
of innovation in the field. It promises to
unlock new possibilities for real-time data
collection, analysis, and visualization,
transforming how we understand and
interact with our world. Embracing AI –
Enabled Technologies will be essential for
surveyors to remain competitive in a
globalized world, enhance their services,
and contribute to a more sustainable and
data-driven future and above all increase
profits.
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Thank you
for
Listening
and Remain
Blessed
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