GISCafe Voice 
Sanjay Gangal
Sanjay Gangal is the President of IBSystems, the parent company of AECCafe.com, MCADCafe, EDACafe.Com, GISCafe.Com, and ShareCG.Com. GISCafe Industry Predictions for 2025 – Leica GeosystemsDecember 20th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
By Amanda Iglesias, Software Product Manager for Mobile Mapping Systems at Leica Geosystems (part of Hexagon).  Amanda Iglesias How are emerging surveying technologies reshaping the surveying industry in terms of the operational landscape and the role itself? As modern surveying technologies – such as 3D laser scanners and mobile mapping – enable more efficient and precise data collection, they’re also driving fundamental changes in how surveying businesses operate and grow. Smaller firms are growing into mid-sized companies, which are then absorbed into larger geospatial companies, creating a network of diverse departments that include surveying, environmental services, and beyond. As they expand, successful organisations are adopting digital tools and cloud platforms to connect the dots between surveying data and engineering insights. The benefits also extend beyond internal teams, with these same tools enabling seamless collaboration with external partners like architects and local authorities. Alongside the advancement of technology, the surveying landscape itself has become increasingly competitive, with surveyors expanding their skill sets to meet evolving demands. While maintaining that core focus on traditional engineering projects like roads and railways, professionals will increasingly augment their services with cutting-edge tools that offer greater precision and expanded scope. Read the rest of GISCafe Industry Predictions for 2025 – Leica Geosystems Harnessing Data to Combat Climate Change: IBM’s Environmental Intelligence Leads the ChargeDecember 6th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In the face of escalating environmental challenges, businesses are under mounting pressure to adopt sustainable practices and navigate the complexities of climate resilience. IBM, long recognized as a pioneer in leveraging technology to address global issues, has introduced the Environmental Intelligence platform, a groundbreaking toolkit designed to empower organizations with the data and analytics needed to meet these demands head-on.
Aditya Khosla, Principal Product Manager at IBM, recently shared insights into the platform’s transformative potential. Speaking about the growing urgency for actionable data, Khosla emphasized how essential it is for businesses to integrate diverse environmental datasets into their operations. “To respond effectively to today’s environmental challenges, businesses need tools that seamlessly integrate datasets like weather patterns, emissions data, and satellite imagery into their decision-making processes,” he explained. IBM Environmental Intelligence embodies this vision, consolidating public and commercial datasets into a unified, user-friendly interface. This allows developers and data scientists to spend less time processing raw data and more time innovating. By combining geospatial, climate, and emissions data into one cohesive platform, IBM has removed many of the traditional barriers to implementing advanced environmental solutions. At Trimble Dimensions, AI Shifts from Hype to Practical ApplicationsNovember 18th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
Las Vegas — Trimble Dimensions 2024, held in the buzzing halls of the Venetian Convention Center, was a showcase of transformative technology for the built environment. Amid the digital displays and technical presentations, I had the pleasure of meeting with Karoliina Torttila, Trimble’s Director of AI, for an in-depth conversation. Torttila is Trimble’s quiet powerhouse in harnessing artificial intelligence to meet the nuanced needs of architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). Our discussion underscored the practicality driving Trimble’s AI initiatives, turning AI from an abstract idea into a tool that supports real-world challenges.  Karoliina Torttila Torttila greeted me warmly, her passion evident as she described her work. “Our job,” she said, “is to adapt AI to make it genuinely useful for our industry.” In Torttila’s view, AI must address the unique challenges of AEC, where construction sites, structural materials, and surveying equipment require specialized knowledge that traditional AI models simply don’t have. “There are fantastic general AI models, but they aren’t designed to handle the complex, ever-changing environments of construction and surveying.” One of the most significant hurdles Torttila faces is training AI to recognize the highly specific visuals and conditions on construction sites. While AI is adept at recognizing common objects in everyday settings, it falters when applied to niche environments like electrical substations or construction zones, where the visual data is dramatically different. Torttila explained how her team at Trimble refines these models to interpret everything from survey instruments to steel beams in real-world conditions, filling in gaps left by standard AI training sets. “We’re not building a ‘ChatGPT for construction,’” she laughed. “Instead, we’re refining existing models to make them reliable in our specialized settings.” Read the rest of At Trimble Dimensions, AI Shifts from Hype to Practical Applications A Breakthrough in UAV Lidar: Teledyne Geospatial and Inertial Labs Launch EchoONE, an NDAA-Compliant, Lightweight SolutionNovember 8th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In the evolving landscape of UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) lidar technology, two industry leaders, Teledyne Geospatial and Inertial Labs, have joined forces to introduce EchoONE. Launched in September 2024, EchoONE represents a groundbreaking advancement in lightweight, high-performance lidar technology. Designed for affordability, precision, and compliance with stringent data security standards, this new system is set to change the game for industries such as land surveying, utility management, transportation, and infrastructure. EchoONE is the result of a unique collaboration that combines Teledyne’s advanced lidar and camera technology with Inertial Labs’ expertise in Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS). “This collaboration allowed us to deliver a product that genuinely meets the needs of diverse industries,” said Mark Treiber, Product Manager at Teledyne Geospatial, in a recent interview. “It’s not just about lidar; it’s about creating a comprehensive tool that brings reliability and ease of use to every project.”
Bridging Two Worlds: A Collaboration Rooted in Complementary Strengths The EchoONE project was born from a desire to merge the best capabilities of two companies with strong track records in sensor technology. Teledyne Geospatial brought its long-standing expertise in developing long-range lidar systems, producing the EchoONE’s lidar sensor entirely in-house, instead of relying on off-the-shelf components. This bespoke approach allows for greater control over the sensor’s specifications and performance. Meanwhile, Inertial Labs integrated its IMU and INS technology, which are essential for accurate positioning and orientation. Their RESEPI (Remote Sensing Payload Instrument) technology enables seamless data integration, further enhancing EchoONE’s capabilities. “We recognized an opportunity to leverage our mutual strengths to develop a solution that fills a gap in the market,” Treiber explained. The result is a UAV lidar system that offers an unprecedented combination of performance, flexibility, and compliance—without the trade-offs that often force customers to compromise between different features. Harnessing the Power of AI: Nearmap’s Pioneering Gen 6 at Autodesk UniversityOctober 24th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
At the heart of San Diego’s Autodesk University, innovation was in full display as Nearmap, a global leader in location intelligence and aerial imagery, unveiled their latest technological breakthrough—Gen 6 AI. In an exclusive interview, Jeff Saunders, Director of Product Management, and Steve Santovasi, Director of Product, took the time to share how Nearmap’s advancements are transforming industries with unparalleled precision and efficiency. With the release of their sixth generation AI technology, Nearmap is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in geospatial intelligence. “We’ve got over 180 layers of data and attributes that we’re gathering from our vertical captures,” Saunders shared. But this isn’t just about amassing data—it’s about turning that data into actionable insights that have the power to reshape decision-making across industries.  Showcases different AI packs and layers including: Buildings & Vegetation, Hard Surfaces, Pole detection and Pavement damage. From civil engineering to asset management, and government to insurance, Nearmap’s Gen 6 AI is providing businesses with the tools they need to streamline workflows, minimize risks, and anticipate needs long before issues arise. Read the rest of Harnessing the Power of AI: Nearmap’s Pioneering Gen 6 at Autodesk University Bentley Systems CEO Nicholas Cumins Charts AI-Driven Future at Year in Infrastructure ConferenceOctober 12th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
Vancouver, Canada — Nicholas Cumins, CEO of Bentley Systems, delivered an impassioned keynote on the second day of the Year in Infrastructure conference, laying out a vision where artificial intelligence (AI) and open data ecosystems redefine the way the world builds and maintains infrastructure. Against the backdrop of Vancouver’s storied urban development, Cumins urged the industry to embrace technology and rethink strategies for a sustainable future, underscoring Bentley’s commitment to innovation over the past four decades. Cumins began his address with a nod to science fiction author William Gibson, paraphrasing his famous quote: “The future is already here—it’s just not evenly distributed.” In this spirit, he framed the conference as a showcase of possibilities, celebrating groundbreaking projects that epitomize the role of technology in addressing the complexities of modern infrastructure. “Vancouver, with its 10,000-year history of balancing the built and natural environment, stands as the perfect inspiration,” Cumins said. Drawing parallels between the city’s transformation since Expo 86 and Bentley Systems’ founding in 1984, Cumins noted how both entities have been fueled by forward-thinking approaches, setting the pace for global infrastructure progress.
The Evolution of Infrastructure: From CAD to AITracing Bentley’s history, Cumins emphasized the company’s pivotal role in revolutionizing design through MicroStation, which democratized CAD (computer-aided design) software. As technology evolved from 2D to 3D modeling, Bentley empowered engineers to visualize projects realistically and address issues before construction commenced. Cumins highlighted Bentley’s innovations in 4D construction with Synchro and the company’s leap into digital twins, which create dynamic, continuously updated replicas of infrastructure assets. The integration of AI is Bentley’s next frontier, Cumins asserted. AI-driven insights are already transforming asset operations, with predictive maintenance using machine learning to preempt costly failures. “We can now predict when road repairs are needed before traffic is disrupted,” he remarked, citing AI’s potential to improve outcomes in infrastructure design, operations, and sustainability. Pix4D Elevates Geospatial Mapping with Innovative 3D TechnologySeptember 11th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
Last week at the Commercial UAV Conference in Las Vegas, Pix4D, a leader in geospatial mapping technology, showcased its latest innovations in 3D data capture and processing. Known for converting imagery from drones, aircraft, and mobile devices into highly accurate georeferenced 2D orthomosaics, 3D surface models, and point clouds, the Swiss company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in photogrammetry and LiDAR integration. In an interview at the conference, Ashley Reade, Business Development Executive at Pix4D, discussed the company’s unique approach to geospatial data solutions. “We aim to make accurate, high-quality data accessible to everyone, from experts in surveying and construction to those with limited experience in data capture,” Reade said.  PIX4Dcatch and Bad Elf Scanning Solution Interface A focal point of the conversation was Pix4D’s comprehensive workflow, starting with its PIX4Dcatch mobile app. Compatible with the latest Apple iPhone Pro series, the app combines photogrammetry, LiDAR, and GNSS technology to capture georeferenced 3D models with precision. This is further enhanced by a new partnership with Bad Elf, announced earlier this month, which pairs their RTK GNSS Rover with PIX4Dcatch for centimeter-level accuracy in terrestrial scanning. Read the rest of Pix4D Elevates Geospatial Mapping with Innovative 3D Technology AerialSphere: Navigating New Horizons in GIS ImageryAugust 23rd, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In the ever-evolving world of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), where accuracy and innovation reign supreme, AerialSphere has emerged as a trailblazer by redefining how imagery can be leveraged for smarter, more efficient data utilization. Initially recognized as a data provider specializing in panoramic imagery, AerialSphere has pivoted in a groundbreaking direction, now offering software solutions that enhance the usability of non-traditional aerial imagery in GIS applications.
During a recent interview, Suzi Schumaker, Chief Operating Officer, and Nick Markwardt, Chief Experience Officer at AerialSphere, discussed the company’s strategic evolution. “We started with 360-degree aerial imagery, but as we engaged more deeply with GIS professionals, it became evident that the industry needed solutions that could handle non-traditional sensors,” Schumaker explained. “Our pivot was driven by the desire to help users integrate diverse data sources, from cell phone captures to drone footage, into GIS platforms.” AerialSphere’s software solutions have not only made it easier to incorporate this unconventional data into GIS but have also significantly flattened the learning curve for new users. Markwardt elaborated, “We’ve designed our software to empower everyone, from field operators to GIS analysts, to use and share GIS imagery seamlessly. By skipping several traditional steps, we make the process faster and more accessible.” Fulcrum Revolutionizes Field Data Collection with Advanced Integrations and AIJuly 28th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
At the recent 2024 Esri User Conference in San Diego, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jim Grady, CEO at Fulcrum, and Tomas Ratto, CMO at Fulcrum. Their insights shed light on the impressive advancements Fulcrum has made in field data collection and process management, particularly with their new bidirectional integration with ArcGIS Enterprise and their ongoing AI initiatives. Streamlining Field OperationsFulcrum’s platform is designed to empower field workers conducting inspections, surveys, and asset management data collection. Jim Grady emphasized that the platform was created by and for field workers, ensuring that it meets the practical needs of those on the ground. Fulcrum integrates seamlessly with GIS systems, particularly ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Enterprise, and ArcGIS Pro, as well as with enterprise asset management systems and ERP systems. The recent announcement of bidirectional integration with ArcGIS Enterprise is a game-changer for Fulcrum’s utility market customers. This new feature allows field data to flow seamlessly between Fulcrum and ArcGIS Enterprise, enabling real-time updates and efficient data management. Tomas Ratto explained, “Our customers can now receive and send back data into ArcGIS, addressing a critical need for utilities and other sectors.”
Uniting Our World: Insights from the 2024 ESRI User Conference Plenary SessionsJuly 17th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In a world facing unprecedented challenges, the significance of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in fostering global connections and solving complex problems has never been more evident. The 2024 ESRI User Conference, held in San Diego, brought together visionaries, experts, and leaders from various fields to discuss the transformative power of GIS in creating a sustainable and resilient future. The plenary sessions highlighted the diverse applications of GIS, from improving urban planning and addressing climate change to enhancing humanitarian efforts and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Power of GIS in Addressing Global ChallengesIn an interconnected world, where the complexities of global challenges grow ever more intricate, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) emerge as a pivotal tool to navigate these multifaceted issues. The 2024 ESRI User Conference highlighted the profound impact of GIS across various sectors, illustrating its capacity to foster understanding, drive actionable insights, and facilitate transformative change. By bridging spatial and temporal gaps, GIS helps to unravel the layers of data that shape our world, enabling more informed decisions and targeted interventions.
Read the rest of Uniting Our World: Insights from the 2024 ESRI User Conference Plenary Sessions |
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