Another widely used type is the Topographic Survey, which maps out the physical features and elevation changes of an area. This survey focuses on capturing details like hills, valleys, rivers, and buildings, providing a complete representation of the landscape’s shape.
By utilising GNSS and total stations, topographic surveys gather both horizontal and vertical data on natural and constructed features. This data is invaluable for urban planning, landscape design, and infrastructure projects, making topographic surveys one of the most versatile types of geodetic surveying. The information gathered assists in creating detailed terrain models, which are essential for civil planning, flood control, and assessing natural resources(Geodetic Surveying Definition, n.d.).
What’s one piece of crucial pre-construction data you rely on most in your own projects? Share your insights!
Reference:
Geodetic Surveying Definition: Methods & Key Uses Explained. (n.d.). Retrieved June 26, 2025, from https://www.novatr.com/blog/what-is-geodetic-survey-definition-methods-and-uses
