Implementing a GPS Field Solution to a National Survey Team

N. Dewfield, P. Cruddace, I. Wilson, P. Sadlowski, M. Greaves

Abstract:	In the latter part of 2001, Ordnance Survey (Great Britain's National Mapping Agency) made the decision to invest in RTK GPS as the primary survey tool for its´ field operations. The Ordnance Survey has upwards of 350 surveyors, so the equipment, methods and process for deployment had to be right. GPS was mixed with reflectorless laser technology to provide a complete one-man solution. The methods developed, to provide the infrastructure needed to support such a large deployment, are discussed. A network of ~60 GPS base stations were located around Great Britain allowing for multiple data access to the field. The development of model operating procedures was critical to the success of the implementation, ensuring that common methods and standards were followed by all. These were backed up through the development of lean management methods from within the Operations side of the business. The philosophy behind these methods is discussed. The use of GPS has resulted in massive efficiencies in the form of map currency, reduced backlog and increased point capture. In fact, the deployment of GPS has meant an increase in the rate of spatial data capture of 40% which, with such a large work force, has resulted in a complete reforming of working practices. Ordnance Survey is now looking to develop its stand-alone base station network by networking the receivers together to produce a regional 'networked' RTK correction.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 16th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS/GNSS 2003) September 9 - 12, 2003 Oregon Convention Center Portland, OR
Pages:	755 - 761
Cite this article:	Dewfield, N., Cruddace, P., Wilson, I., Sadlowski, P., Greaves, M., "Implementing a GPS Field Solution to a National Survey Team," Proceedings of the 16th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS/GNSS 2003), Portland, OR, September 2003, pp. 755-761.
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