Five Game-Changing Trends in the Geospatial Industry

The geospatial industry is experiencing transformative changes with advanced technologies and evolving practices, including reality capture, model-based workflows, connectivity, AI integration, and innovative business models.

The geospatial industry is the brink of significant transformation, driven by emerging technologies and evolving business practices. Based on a recent survey by Trimble, insights from industry experts, and analyses from leading research firms, here are five key trends that promise to shape the future of the industry.

1. Continued Growth in Reality Capture

Advanced 3D scanners and mobile mapping systems are revolutionising the surveying and mapping 
landscape. The adoption of "fit for purpose" reality-capture solutions is accelerating, including:
• Traditional tripod-based laser scanners
• UAV photogrammetry & LiDAR solutions
• Vehicle-mounted mobile mapping systems
• Handheld and backpack-based solutions

Improvements in data-collection platforms, software, and technology are making these tools more 
accessible and cost-effective. This widespread adoption is leading to the creation of "living 
digital twins," which provide constantly updated, detailed representations of physical assets and 
projects, enabling more informed decision-making.

2. Model-Based Workflows

The industry is shifting from geometry-first to object-first thinking. Instead of focusing on 
points, lines, and polygons, surveyors are now using objects like bridge pylons, walls, or slabs with their associated properties and attributes. This approach, supported by parametric and intelligent data, fosters powerful, connected digital environments such as digital twins and Building Information Modeling (BIM). Digital twins are dynamic digital replicas of physical objects, processes, or systems, offering real-time status and performance monitoring through sensors and observations. This capability is transforming decision-making, planning, and predictive analysis. The projected revenue associated with digital twins is expected to reach $45 billion by 2026.

3. Connectivity & Interoperability

Model-based collaboration across project lifecycles enhances connectivity among all stakeholders. Companies can now coordinate activities and BIM processes more efficiently, keeping projects on
time and on budget. Improved field connectivity ensures teams have access to the latest designs, 
cutting manual data transfers and reducing rework. Enhanced interoperability, helped by cloud APIs 
and cooperative efforts among manufacturers, ensures seamless data flow across various 
environments, from conceptual design to construction management and operations.

4. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The integration of AI into the geospatial industry is unlocking the potential of vast geospatial 
data sets. AI accelerates tasks like point cloud classification and feature extraction, 
transforming data into actionable information swiftly. It also automates repetitive processes, 
allowing professionals to focus on critical tasks such as analysis and quality assurance. AI and 
machine learning are revolutionising the Feature market by generating more valuable and precise insights from location- based data. AI-powered image- recognition techniques can better interpret satellite images to show features like roads and wetlands, as well as track changes over time.

5. Business Model Transformation

Innovative business models are democratising access to advanced geospatial technologies. Beyond 
traditional purchasing, renting, or leasing options, there's a rise in affordable operating expenses (OpEx)-based models, such as on-demand, subscription, and pay-per-use. These models enable companies of all sizes, including those with seasonal workforces or smaller coverage areas, to access high-end systems and solutions.

Conclusion

The geospatial industry is on the cusp of a wave of remarkable innovation, with advancements in data accuracy, immediacy, and analytical capabilities. These trends are redefining how geospatial professionals work and envision future possibilities. By using these insights and technologies, businesses can capitalise on emerging market opportunities and drive growth in this exciting, evolving field.