Utility Surveys                                       

Conducting a utility inventory using GPS technology is fast becoming a priority for public works directors and utility engineers. The need for utility inventories is expected to increase further in response to a governmental mandate issued June 30, 1999, by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board.

A utility inventory is not only a useful tool for helping you begin meeting your needs, but also the best way to manage and maintain your infrastructure assets. A utility inventory is an investment that will provide returns over the long run. But unless sound surveying and planning practices are used consistently, the integrity of inventory data collected will be questionable. Do not confuse "point data collection" with the expertise required for accurate and complete utility surveys. An inaccurate inventory could have serious ramifications later for mapping and other surveying and GIS applications. If you want to create a successful utility inventory, one that lays an accurate, complete, and solid foundation for short and long-term applications, create and then follow a to-do list. Being shortsighted now can doom a project and may result in throwaway data. By planning well, you can help guarantee your project is successful.