Surveying Body of Knowledge – Preparing Professional Surveyors for the 21st Century By Joshua Greenfeld, PhD Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The body of knowledge committee Members: Josh Greenfeld, PhD, LS – Committee chair Bob Burtch, PLS, PE – Ferris State University Earl Burkholder, PS, PE – NM State University Bob Dahn, PLS – Private practice Wendy Lathrop, PLS – Private practice Joe Paiva, PhD, PLS – Geomatics Consultant
Outline What is a profession? Why a “body of knowledge”? How is the body of knowledge being developed Components of the body of knowledge Macro and Micro Where we go from here
Why a “body of knowledge”? The definition of a profession: A profession is an occupation, vocation or career where specialized knowledge of a subject, field, or science is applied. It is usually applied to occupations that involve prolonged academic training and a formal qualification. It is axiomatic that "professional activity involves systematic knowledge and proficiency." Professions are usually regulated by professional bodies that may set examinations of competence, act as a licensing authority for practitioners, and enforce adherence to an ethical code of practice.
Why a “body of knowledge”? Professions enjoy a high social status, regard and esteem conferred upon them by society. This high esteem arises primarily from the higher social function of their work, which is regarded as vital to society as a whole and thus of having a special and valuable nature. All professions involve technical, specialized and highly skilled work often referred to as "professional expertise." Training for this work involves obtaining degrees and professional qualifications (Licensure) without which entry to the profession is barred (occupational closure). Training also requires regular updating of skills (continuing education).
Why a “body of knowledge”? In summary: A profession is founded on knowledge skills and education. The respect for professionals arises from their expertise, education, and the impact their work makes on society. The acquisition of specialized knowledge, skills and expertise justifies the special privilege bestowed on a licensed professional to practice his/her profession and bar everyone else from practicing the same.
Why a “body of knowledge”? Internal reasons: To formulate the scope of the profession To promote recognition for the need for college education To help surveyors in business development To develop surveying scholarship External reasons: To help promote the profession To define the distinctiveness of the profession
Why a “body of knowledge” for surveying? A bill to loosen licensing requirements for surveying in rural areas of Alabama was introduced in the Alabama legislature. In an article on the bill that appeared in the Mobile Press Register, the following justification for the bill was given: "PVC pipe made everyone a plumber; the wire welder made everybody a welder. GPS made everyone a surveyor."
Surveying 25 years ago vs. today Total Station (robotic), GPS (RTK) Tapes and Transits/Theodolites Polar measurements Measurements with abscissa and offsets 3D Scanner Topo measurements with Stadia CAD, GIS Manual drafting with ink on Mylar NSRS (national spatial reference system) Assumed coordinates 1 person crew 3 person surveying crew Rigorous computations methods Approximate computation methods
What will surveyors do 25 years from now? “It's tough to make predictions, especially about the future.” (Yogi Berra) However it is safe to predict that: Surveyors will use different tools and technology Field work will become a smaller component of a project Clients and deliverables will change Professional surveyors will have to be able to adopt new and somewhat different skills
Surveying Then Now EDUCATION Experience Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
Knowledge vs. Skills Skill is about knowing how and being useful it’s only about being able to do things it isn’t about knowing why things are as they are or what exactly they are. It’s just that you can do it You don’t have to know how it is you know how to do it, either
Approaches to developing a body of knowledge Macro level Micro level Technology centered Theory and science centered Knowledge vs. skills A combination of the above
Knowledge vs. Skills Knowledge is knowing what, and why. It’s about knowing the concepts, the terminology. It’s about being able to use concepts from one field to another, to spot patterns between things. It’s being able to discuss your field with a peer, or read technical papers about it. Skill is about knowing how and being useful it’s only about being able to do things it isn’t about knowing why things are as they are or what exactly they are. It’s just that you can do it You don’t have to know how it is you know how to do it, either
Resources for Body of Knowledge (BoK )
The Macro Level Surveying Body of Knowledge
Definitions of Level of Competence Level 1 (Recognition) represents a reasonable level of familiarity with a concept but lacks the knowledge to specify and procure solutions without additional expertise. Level 2 (Understanding) implies a thorough mental grasp and comprehension of a concept or topic. Understanding typically requires more than abstract knowledge. Level 3 (Ability) is a capability to perform with competence. As one grows professionally, his/her abilities also develop so that more challenging and difficult problems can be solved.
Surveying BOK in Terms of Outcomes The 15 BoK Outcomes Surveying BOK in Terms of Outcomes 11 ABET outcomes (a-k) A depth outcome (specialized technical area) 3 Breadth outcomes (Supervision and project management; business and public policy and administration leadership)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering/applied science/ technology. (ABET (a)) Commentary: A technical core of knowledge in mathematics, science, and technology In imparting the common technical core, students should understand the fundamentals of several recognized major surveying areas. Knowledge includes most of the following: mathematics through linear algebra, probability, statistics and statistical testing, physics, economics, geo-spatial representation, and information technology. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze and interpret data. (ABET (b)) Commentary: Surveyors commonly design and conduct field work, gather data, process observations, and then analyze and interpret the results. Professional surveyors should be able to do this in at least one of the current major surveying areas such as: geodetic control, field based mapping, imagery based mapping, boundary surveys, GIS, etc. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs. (ABET (c)) Commentary: Design methodology and process elements include problem definition, scope, methodology, means, analysis, creativity, synthesizing alternatives, iteration, regulations, codes and safety. Other design elements are bidding on projects, estimating costs; interaction between planning, design and execution. Understanding large-scale systems including the need to integrate information, organizations, people, processes, and technology. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams. (ABET (d)) Commentary: A professional surveyor should be able to lead a team as well as participate as a member of a team. This requires understanding of team formation and evolution, personality profiles, team dynamics, collaboration among diverse disciplines, problem solving, and time management and being able to foster and integrate diversity of perspectives, knowledge, and experiences. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an ability to identify, formulate and solve Surveying problems. (ABET e) Commentary: A professional surveyor should be able to assess situations in order to identify surveying problems, formulate alternatives, and recommend feasible solutions Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility. (ABET (f)) Commentary: The professional surveyor is to hold paramount the welfare of the public. A thoughtful and careful weighing of alternatives when values conflict is crucial to the responsible conduct of surveying. Therefore, a professional surveyor needs to demonstrate an understanding of and a commitment to practice according to the fundamental principles of ethics and the codes of professional conduct. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an ability to communicate effectively. (ABET (g)) Commentary: Effective communication includes listening, observing, reading, speaking, and writing, and requires understanding of the fundamentals of interacting effectively with technical and non-technical, individuals or audiences, in a variety of settings. A professional surveyor needs to be versatile with communication and presentation tools such as word processing, spreadsheets, slide presentations, graphics, visualization, the worldwide web and other. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: a broad education necessary to understand the impact of Surveying solutions in a global and societal context. (ABET (h)) Commentary: A professional surveyor needs to appreciate, from historical and contemporary perspectives, culture, human and organizational behavior and their impacts on society, as well as the history of land ownership and the heritage of the surveying profession. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in, life-long learning. (ABET (i)) Commentary: Life-long learning encompasses Professional development and Personal development Life-long learning options include additional formal education, continuing education, professional practice experience, active involvement in professional societies, community service, coaching, mentoring, and other learning and growth activities. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: a knowledge of contemporary issues. (ABET (j)) Commentary: To be effective, professional surveyors should appreciate the relationship of surveying to critical contemporary issues such as multicultural globalization of surveying practice; raising the quality of life around the globe; the growing diversity of society; and the technical, environmental, societal, political, legal, economic, and financial implications of surveying and spatial information projects. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern Surveying tools necessary for surveying practice. (ABET (k)) Commentary: This includes the role and use of appropriate positioning and information technologies, contemporary analysis and design methods, and applicable standards, as practical problem-solving tools to complement knowledge of fundamental concepts. The ability to select the appropriate tools for solving different types and levels of problems. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an ability to apply knowledge in a specialized area related to Surveying Commentary: For a professional surveyor, specialized technical coursework (or the equivalent) is expected for this outcome. Examples of specialized technical areas are: legal aspects of surveying, mapping (field or image based), visualization, GIS, high order surveying and Geodesy. Specializations could be in non-traditional fields such as computer science, geography and spatial representation, and statistics. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an understanding of the elements of supervision and project management Commentary: Professional surveyors often supervise and carry out projects. Project management essentials include project manager responsibilities, defining and meeting client requirements, contract negotiation, project work plans, scope and deliverables, budget and schedule preparation and monitoring, equipment, safety, interaction among professionals from various disciplines, quality assurance and quality control, and dispute resolution processes. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an understanding of business and public policy and administration fundamentals Commentary: The professional surveyor typically functions within the private sector but also within the public sector. This requires at least an understanding of business, public policy, and public administration fundamentals. Business fundamentals topics in the private sector include legal forms of ownership, organizational structure and design, income statements, balance sheets, economic decisions, finance, marketing and sales, billable time, overhead, and profit. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an understanding of business and public policy and administration fundamentals Commentary (cont’): Essential public policy and administration fundamentals include the political process, public policy, laws and regulations, funding mechanisms, public education and involvement, government-business interaction, and the public service responsibility of professionals. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: an understanding of the role of the leader and leadership principles Commentary: Leading, in the private and public arena, which differs from and complements managing, requires broad motivation, direction, and communication knowledge and skills. Attitudes generally accepted as being conducive to leadership include commitment, confidence, curiosity, entrepreneurship, integrity, judgment, persistence, positiveness and sensitivity. Desirable behaviors of leaders, which can be taught. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The 21st Century surveyor must demonstrate: Technical Outcomes 1-3, 5, 11-12 Professional Outcomes 4, 7, 13-15 Practice Outcomes 6, 8-10 Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
HOW SHOULD IT BE TAUGHT AND LEARNED? The how has two main components: Undergraduate study leading to a baccalaureate degree in surveying; Post-BS surveying experience prior to licensure. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
Formal education and experience needed to fulfill outcomes Post licensure Education and Experience Ability Experience Understanding Recognition 1 2 5 11 12 3 4 7 9 6 8 10 13 14 15 Technical core Experiments/analyze and interpret Surveying (Eng) problems Surveying (Eng) tools Specialized Surveying area Design Multi-disciplinary teams Communication Life-long learning Prof and ethical responsibilities Impact of eng solutions Contemporary issues Supervision and project management Business and public policy Leadership Post Licensure additional Outcomes Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)
The Micro Level Surveying Body of Knowledge
FIG Definition of the Functions of the Surveyor The determination of the size and shape of the earth and the measurement of all data needed to define the size, position, shape and contour of any part of the earth and monitoring any change therein. The positioning of objects in space and time as well as the positioning and monitoring of physical features, structures and engineering works on, above or below the surface of the earth. The development, testing and calibration of sensors, instruments and systems for the above-mentioned purposes and for other surveying purposes. POSITIONING
FIG Definition of the Functions of the Surveyor IMAGING The acquisition and use of spatial information from close range, aerial and satellite imagery and the automation of these processes. LAW The determination of the position of the boundaries of public or private land, including national and international boundaries, and the registration of those lands with the appropriate authorities.
FIG Definition of the Functions of the Surveyor The design, establishment and administration of geographic information systems (GIS) and the collection, storage, analysis, management, display and dissemination of data. The analysis, interpretation and integration of spatial objects and phenomena in GIS, including the visualisation and communication of such data in maps, models and mobile digital devices. GIS
FIG Definition of the Functions of the Surveyor The study of the natural and social environment, the measurement of land and marine resources and the use of such data in the planning of development in urban, rural and regional areas. The planning, development and redevelopment of property, whether urban or rural and whether land or buildings. The assessment of value and the management of property, whether urban or rural and whether land or buildings. The planning, measurement and management of construction works, including the estimation of costs. Land Development
Surveying Professional Paths Career 1 Career 2 GIS Applications GPS Applications Photogrammetry SURVEYING Business & Management Core Academia Research Software Development Boundary Cadastre Special Surveys
Surveying body of knowledge Computer & Information Sciences Business & Management Math & Statistics Imagery Law Physical Science humanities Core GIS Social Science Positioning Land Development Law Engineering Communication & Leadership
Definitions of Levels of knowledge Level 1: a basic level that is so general that everyone in the surveying profession should have. Level 2: a depth of knowledge that is required to perform activities within this knowledge area if the professional is to have a specialization or some other kind of expertise that stands above a background or general knowledge required for the professional. Level 3: a depth of knowledge that enables performance of research, development and professional leadership in that knowledge area.
The positioning Body of Knowledge By Earl Burkholder and Joseph Paiva
Fundamental Concepts of Positioning A first-level breakdown of positioning includes knowledge of: Measurements (both equipment and processes) of physical quantities in various combinations: distances, angles, time, temperature, current, pressures, and mass. Physical laws that govern how measured quantities are reduced to their geometrical components. Solid geometry and other mathematical tools used to describe the spatial relationships of points, lines, surfaces, and objects in the context of coordinate systems and datums.
Fundamental Concepts of Positioning Computer tools (both hardware and software) used to manipulate 3-D digital spatial data. Error propagation, least squares adjustment and other tools required to determine, monitor, and evaluate spatial data accuracy. Standards and specifications used throughout the spatial data user community for evaluating, assessing, and categorizing spatial data to determine suitability for given applications.
Fundamental Concepts of Positioning Information management as related to establishing and preserving the value of spatial data. Communication principles within the context of personal and business relationships as well as professional interactions within a discipline and between disciplines. Economic, business, and legal (sans boundary) concepts as related to successful participation in a successful organization or enterprise.
Measurements Knowledge Area Issues and activities Knowledge of how to evaluate a situation to determine what measurements need to be made using principles of surveying pre-analysis Geometries; terrain; field conditions; reconnaissance; cost and time budgets Select appropriate technology and field procedure based on analysis of the situation and an understanding of the technical differences between technologies that may be applied, to make the measurements required Includes peripheral devices; consideration of capabilities of technicians who will make measurements
Measurements Knowledge Area Issues and activities Make the required measurements accounting for systematic errors as required for the results desired, and being cognizant of the techniques to attain accuracy and precision Field conditions; natural, instrument, and personal error sources; design of appropriate procedures Ability to identify the appropriate mathematical models to use in a given situation to best represent the features and the area being surveyed Projections; datums, ellipsoids, coordinate systems
Measurements Knowledge Area Issues and activities Establish control as required Design or follow control survey specifications as appropriate Perform survey Follow survey design, make ad hoc changes to design due to unanticipated conditions or factors
Data Analysis and Management Knowledge Area Issues and activities Examine data for completeness Blunder detection; Post-process to remove systematic errors remaining; evaluate random error Analyze data for precision; draw conclusions about accuracy Positional accuracy Determine if additional measurements are required Re-measurements of initial data not up to specifications; or that are missing to accomplish survey requirements
Data Analysis and Management Knowledge Area Issues and activities Integrate data from various sensor into a homogenous database Metadata management
Adjustments Knowledge Area Issues and activities Apply statistical and adjustment tools to improve quality of information being reported Traverse calculations and adjustment, level loop adjustments, remove aberrant data Calculate integrity of networks and other geometries Strength of figure Apply principles of geodesy
Coordinate Geometry Knowledge Area Issues and activities Apply 2-D and 3-D transformations Determine projected coordinates Determine geodetic coordinates Determine positions of surveyed points Accuracy estimates Determine position or configuration of designed points, lines, surfaces and volumes Determine areas and volumes
Information Extraction Knowledge Area Issues and activities Report positions, lines, surfaces and volumes Level of confidence Report conclusions, deductions and inductions Abstract thinking, design Create maps and reports that are project and “consumer-specific” Creative design Use CAD to generate user products
The Imaging Body of Knowledge By Robert Burtch
The definition of imagery Photogrammetry: “The art, science, and technology of obtaining reliable information about physical objects and the environment through processes of recording, measuring, and interpreting photographic images and patterns of recorded radiant electromagnetic energy and other phenomena” ASPRS Photogrammetry includes additional tools garnered from other disciplines, including: Image processing, compression, enhancement, restoration, segmentation, primitives, pattern recognition, artificial intelligence, image understanding, and computer vision, just to mention a few. Mikhail
The definition of imagery Remote sensing: Lillesand and Kiefer “The science and art of obtaining information about an object, area, or phenomenon through the analysis of data acquired by a device that is not in contact with the object, area, or phenomenon under investigation” A broader definition of imagery could include: Other types of data collection, such as laser scanning, echo sounding and sonar and more.
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Cameras and other Sensors Metric versus non-metric cameras Sensor characteristics Calibration methods Resolution Scanners and other sensors
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Photography and Imaging Principles of optics Aperture and shutter relationship Films and digital images Characteristic curve, Fall-off Electromagnetic spectrum (including Planck’s Law, Kirchhoff’s Law, Stefan-Boltzmann Law, Wien’s Displacement Law) Interactions with atmosphere and surfaces
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Photo measurements Coordinate system for image Methods for measuring image positions Distortions to measurements (film deformation, lens distortion, atmospheric refraction, earth curvature)
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Geometry of Photograph Determination of scale Relief displacement Tilt displacement Determination of ground distance/coordinates Determination of exterior orientation Digital Data Methods of depicting resolution Data formats
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Stereoscopy and Parallax Depth perception Use of stereoscope Y-parallax causes and solutions Flight-line axis system Parallax measurements Analytical Photogrammetry Collinearity and coplanarity conditions Space resection and intersection Analytical stereomodel Analytical aerotriangulation principles Simultaneous bundle adjustment
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Stereoplotters Basic principles of design Analytical and digital plotters Mapping Principles Compilation of planimetric features Contour generation DEM principles Mapping and GIS Digital Image Processing Digital image model Contrast enhancement Spectral transformation Resampling strategies (nearest neighbor, bilinear, bicubic)
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Digital Photogrammetry Image measurements Epipolar geometry Image matching strategies Automation methods (aerotriangulation, DEM, orthophtographs) Project Planning Determination of end lap and side lap Determination of flying height (C-factor) Creation of flight map Conditions affecting flight performance
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Close-Range Photogrammetry Use of metric and non-metric cameras Determination of camera calibration Oblique terrestrial photography Surveying Principles for Imagery Field data collection methodologies Principles of GPS, IMU Coordinate transformation between sensor frames Ground control and targetting
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Land Observing Satellites Landsat system, CORONA, SPOT, IKONOS, etc Large, medium, small resolution systems Advantages and disadvantages Microsatellite sensor systems UAVs Active Microwave Systems Geometry of radar and wavelength Penetration of signal Real aperture and synthetic aperture systems Radar interferometry, IFSAR Radargrammetry
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics Laser Scanning Lidar signals characteristics Fusion of sensors and data Geometry between frames Processing terrestrial and airborne data Topographic versus bathymetric versus terrestrial
Imagery Body of Knowledge Knowledge area Topics DEM Technologies Enabling technologies in data collection Sampling strategies Types of sonar, principles of sonar systems Delaunay triangulation, grid structure Capabilities and limitation of technologies Accuracy assessment/standards
The Legal Body of Knowledge By Wendy Lathrop and Robert Dahn
The need for legal knowledge The practice of every design professional is intimately tied to the law Surveyors are involved in a legal bond between themselves and their client – known as the contract Surveyors may be called to court as defendants, professional witnesses, or expert witnesses
Why know the law: “surveyor” defined “…educated in the principles of mathematics, the related physical and applied sciences, and the relevant requirements of law…” (New Jersey) “…special knowledge of the principles of mathematics, the related physical and applied sciences, and the relevant requirements of law for adequate evidence of the act of measuring and locating land…” (Alaska)
The (legal) practice of surveying What may be permitted under one surveying license may not be permitted in another Maryland allows (and expects) licensed professional land surveyors to prepare and design plans that include “road and street grades; sediment and erosion control measures; nonpressurized closed storm drainage and stormwater management systems; and open conduit storm drainage and stormwater management systems” when such work is “undertaken in conjunction with site development or subdivision” In nearby New Jersey such design work is “unlawful” for PLS
Surveying and the Law While a surveyor is not to make legal determinations (unless also admitted to the bar), the professional must be familiar with how the law treats determinations of fact, which both the surveyor and the jury must weigh. The legal body of knowledge provides a firm basis for the surveyor’s career-long pursuit of the broadest possible array of legal information to be applied in the determination of that fact.
Legal Knowledge in a typical land development project Limit of professional services by statute Appropriate contractual language Standards of accuracy required Basis of orientation Deeded land use restrictions Environmental land use restrictions Water district restrictions, Coastal Management Areas Solar easement setbacks
Legal Knowledge in a typical land development project Road access - existing and reserved rights Zoning, lot size, building and use restraints Permit and variance procedures Format of final deliverables for approval Other regulatory issues affecting what the professional is required to do both legally and ethically.
Legal guidance for surveyors Professionalism Business practice Technical practice
Types of legal materials with which surveyors should be familiar Issuing branch of government Materials Included Areas of surveying affected Legislative Local ordinances State statutes Federal statutes Professionalism Business practice Technical practice
Legislative material provides: Definition of terms Definition of legal practice Standards of practice Elements of contracts Legislative intent Business standards
Types of legal materials with which surveyors should be familiar Issuing branch of government Materials Included Areas of surveying affected Administrative State regulations Federal regulations Professionalism Business practice Technical practice
Administrative resources guide: Standards of practice Business standards Environmental practice Land use
Types of legal materials with which surveyors should be familiar Issuing branch of government Materials Included Areas of surveying affected Judicial Rules of evidence County court actions Probate court actions State court actions Federal court actions Professionalism Business practice
Judicial resources supply: Rules of evidence Explanation of terms Explanation of what laws mean (interpretation by application to certain fact scenarios)
Types of legal materials with which surveyors should be familiar Issuing branch of government Materials Included Areas of surveying affected Executive Executive orders (issued by President and governors) Business practice Technical practice
Definitions of Levels of Legal knowledge Familiarity with topics and practical applications of the knowledge to fulfill the needs of clients. Enough knowledge to know the limits of what the surveyor does or does not know
Definitions of Levels of Legal knowledge Specialization within a particular area within the realm of surveying. Researching ancient written documents Environmental issues
Definitions of Levels of Legal knowledge Delve even more deeply into the details of a specific area Conducting research Providing innovation in methodology, writing, and teaching
The GIS Body of Knowledge By Joshua Greenfeld
The definition of GIS based on Chrisman (Chrisman 2002) The organized activity by which people: measure aspects of geographic phenomena and processes; represent these measurements, usually in the form of a computer database, to emphasize spatial themes, entities, and relationships; operate upon these representations to produce more measurements and to discover new relationships by integrating disparate sources; and transform these representations to conform to other frameworks of entities and relationships.
The definition of GIS based on Chrisman (Chrisman 2002) Social and Cultural Context Institutional Context Transformations Operations Representation Measurement Evaluate Inside Goals Data Quality: Verify Against World Context Organizes Views Provides Goals
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 1: Analytical Methods (AM) Objective: Operations to derive analytical results from geospatial data Query operations and query languages (Set theory, SQL…) Geometric measures (Dist, Shape, Proximity, Adjacency and connectivity) Basic analytical operations (Buffers, Overlay, Neighborhoods, Map algebra) Basic Analytical Methods (pattern, Spatial interaction,Multi-criteria evaluation) Analysis of surfaces Spatial statistics (Testing of hypotheses about the nature of spatial pattern, dependency, and heterogeneity) Geostatistics, (Spatial sampling, Semi-variogram modeling, kriging) Spatial regression and econometrics Data mining Network Analysis Optimization and location - allocation modeling
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 2: Conceptual Foundations (CF) Objective: To recognize, identify, and appreciate the explicit spatial, spatio-temporal and semantic components of the geographic environment. Philosophical foundations Cognitive and social foundations Domains of geographic information (Space, Time, Properties) Elements of geographic, information (Discrete entities, Events, Fields…) Relationships (Topological Metrical Spatial distribution) Imperfections in Geographic information (Vagueness Fuzzy sets Error-based uncertainty)
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 3: Cartography and Visualization (CV) Visual display of geographic information. History and trend Data considerations (Source materials, Data abstraction, Projections as a map design issue) Principles of map design (Map design, symbolization, Color, Typography) Graphic representation techniques (thematic mapping methods, Dynamic and interactive displays…) Map production Map use and evaluation (The power of maps, Map reading, interpretation, Map analysis, Impact of uncertainty)
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 4: Design Aspects (DA) Objective: Design of applications and databases for a particular need. The scope of GIS&T system design Project definition Resource planning Database design (Logical and physical models) Analysis design (derived by analysis vs. stored explicitly) Application design (Workflow, User interfaces, CASE tools System implementation (planning, tasks, testing, deployment)
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 5: Data Modeling (DM) Objective: Representation of formalized spatial and spatio-temporal reality through data models and the translation of these data models into data structures that are capable of being implemented within a computational environment Basic Storage and retrieval structure Database management systems (Relational DBMS, Object-oriented, Extensions of the relational model) Tessellation data models (partitions a continuous surface into a set of non-overlapping polygons) Vector and object data models (spaghetti, topological, network model, Object-based spatial databases) Modeling 3-D, Temporal and uncertain Phenomena
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 6: Data Manipulation (DN) Three general classes of operation: Transformation into formats that facilitate subsequent analysis, Generalization and aggregation Transaction management (tracking of changes, versioning, and updating. Representation transformation (of data structures, data models, projections, and data representation) Transaction management of geospatial data (Modeling database change, Reconciling database change, versioning)
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 7: Geocomputation (GC) Methods designed to simulate, model, analyze, and visualize a range of highly complex, often non-deterministic, non-linear problems Computational aspects and neurotomputing Cellular automata (CA) models (computational models in a cell-based space) Heuristics Genetic algorithms (GA) Agent-based models (actors that have heterogeneous characteristics and/or behaviors and interact with a heterogeneous environment) Simulation modeling Uncertainty Fuzzy Sets
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 8: Geospatial Data (GD) Objective: Measurements of locations and attributes of phenomena at or near Earth's surface. Earth Geometry Land pationing systems Georeferencing systems (Geographic, Plane coordinate systems, Tessellated, Linear referencing systems) Datums (Horizontal, Vertical datums) Map projections Data quality (Geometric, Thematic) Land surveying and GPS Digitizing Field data collection (Sample size Sample intervals Field data technologies) Aerial imaging and photogrammetry Satellite and shipboard remote sensing Metadata, standards and infrastructures
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 9: GIS&T and Society (GS) Cost, political, ideological, legal, and personal issues associated with GIS ventures Legal aspects Economic aspects Use of geospatial information in public sector Geospatial information as property Dissemination of geospatial information Ethical aspects of geospatial information and technology Critical GIS (thinking critically about GIS)
The GIS&T Body of Knowledge Knowledge Area 10: Organizational and Institutional Aspects (OI) Management of geographic information systems (GIS)-including hardware, software, data, and workforce-within and among private and public organizations Origins of GIS&T Managing GIS operations and infrastructure Organizational structures and Procedures GIS&T workforce themes Institutional and inter-institutional aspects (Spatial data infrastructures, standards, Technology transfer, sharing among organizations) Coordinating organizations (national and international) (Federal agencies, State and regional coordinating bodies, Professional organizations, Publications)
Marbles’ Six Roles Played by GIS&T Professionals (Marble 1998) Basic spatial and computer understanding Routine use of basic GIS technology Higher level modeling application GIS application design and development GIS system design GIS research and software development Basic spatial and computer understanding Routine use of basic GIS technology Higher level modeling application GIS application design and development GIS system design GIS research and software development
GIS Education for surveyors Undergraduate Degree Post-graduate Certification Professional Education Graduate degree Routine user R P - Specialist Scholar
The Land Development Body of Knowledge By Wendy Lathrop
Why a LD Body of Knowledge? To understand the full scope of the proposed project To respond appropriately to: Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs). To allow the surveyor to: Play an active role in formulating the contract Understand the technical and legal ramifications of the services to be provided Define division of responsibilities between surveyor and client to keep project running on time, on budget, and without increased liability.
Land Development Body of Knowledge Communication and writing skills Knowledge area Issues and activities RFQ and RFP documents Evaluate and assess required data Contractual language Define scope of services, responsibilities Verbal and written communication skills Respond to inquiries, updating client Negotiation skills Verbal and written responses
Land Development Body of Knowledge Legal knowledge relating to business practice Knowledge area Issues and activities Contractual law Protection of both surveyor and client Rules of Evidence Business record keeping Professional liability Contract language, actions, insurance Surveying regulations State-specified allowed practice
Land Development Body of Knowledge Legal and regulatory constraints and processes Knowledge area Issues and activities Zoning ordinances Compliance, variances, comparison to proposed development for suitability Site plan regulations Same Building codes and permitting process Subdivision ordinances and process
Land Development Body of Knowledge Legal and regulatory constraints and processes Knowledge area Issues and activities Certificates of Occupancy requirements Compliance with regulatory requirements, understand approval process Floodplain, wetland, riparian, and other environmental reviews or permitting processes Understand natural and regulatory land use restrictions; assess suitability of site. Understand compliance and variance processes.
Land Development Body of Knowledge Legal and regulatory constraints and processes Knowledge area Issues and activities Steep slopes Understand natural land use restrictions, regulatory land use restrictions; assess suitability of site Mineral deposits or formations (karst/limestone, mines, etc.) Prohibitions, protections, prior claims
Land Development Body of Knowledge Legal and regulatory constraints and processes Knowledge area Issues and activities Soil types Percolation, stability: Natural land use restrictions, regulatory land use restrictions, assess suitability of site Smart Growth How to make proposed development comply
Land Development Body of Knowledge Legal and regulatory constraints and processes Knowledge area Issues and activities LEED Certification Understand levels of certification, compliance factors Brownfield redevelopment Environmental safety, regulatory issues Historic architectural and archaological protection and preservation Protective regulations, private client requirements, compliance and documentation processes
Land Development Body of Knowledge Understanding of required design for project Knowledge area Issues and activities Development design, patterns, and principles Single family, cluster, PUD, infill? Social and physical implications of project Street design Geometry, length limits, safety and traffic factors. Effect on surrounding areas
Land Development Body of Knowledge Understanding of required design Knowledge area Issues and activities Storm drainage design Understand effect on immediate site and surroundings (cumulative effects) Stormwater management design Same Grading and earthwork Stream protection and restoration
Land Development Body of Knowledge Understanding of required design Knowledge area Issues and activities Wastewater and sewage collection and treatment (public and private) Understand effect on immediate site and surroundings (cumulative effects) Water distribution (public and private) Same Utility installation and protection
Land Development Body of Knowledge Understanding of required design Knowledge area Issues and activities Siltation prevention Understand effect on immediate site and surroundings (cumulative effects) Soil stability, permeability Understand effect on immediate site and surroundings (cumulative effects), site suitability
Land Development Body of Knowledge Understanding technology and procedures Knowledge area Issues and activities Cost estimates Understand all processes, time and materials required, time frames and scheduling limitations Local approval processes Understand zoning and planning board hearings and applications. Timing of submittals, and how many copies? How many public hearings? Are other public notices required?
Land Development Body of Knowledge Understanding technology and procedures Knowledge area Issues and activities Boundary survey of site New? Rely on one provided? Checking it? Reset missing corners? Select appropriate method to obtain site topography Level of accuracy needed, assess appropriate technology. If using prior topo, assess its limitations Control survey Level of accuracy needed, assess appropriate technology
Land Development Body of Knowledge Understanding technology and procedures Knowledge area Issues and activities Base map preparation Level of accuracy needed, assess appropriate technology Construction stakeout Setting interior monumentation Density and location of markers, acceptable materials. Where required, monumentation records, bond releases, new drawings prepared.
Land Development Body of Knowledge Understanding technology and procedures Knowledge area Issues and activities Record or “as built” drawings Understand local requirements for acceptance Recording documents
What’s next? Receive feedback on the body of knowledge findings Streamline all five parts of the body of knowledge to a consistent document Lobby national and state societies to adopt and implement the body of knowledge. Dr. Joshua Greenfeld (c)