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Surveying is both an art and a science. In order to make highly accurate, large-scale measurements, you need to have the right tools for the job. As you’re researching, you’ll inevitably come across two distinct systems: GNSS receivers and total stations. Both of these systems can help you analyze an area of land in detail, but they also come with pros and cons. In this blog post, we’ll talk you through some of the main differences between the two to help you decide which one is right for …

It’s a long-running joke that Alaska has two seasons: winter and construction. However, if you’re working in road construction, you know that once the snow has melted there’s no time to sit around and laugh. Whether you are resurfacing a major highway or fixing potholes in a parking lot, time is money. You need to deliver smooth, accurate roadways as efficiently as possible. The best way to do that is with modern asphalt paving systems, which use sophisticated machine control technology to …

The iDig grade control system is an advanced excavating 2D machine control system that is designed to work with any excavator on any excavation site. Ideal for utility, foundation, and all types of civil contractors, iDig is a low-cost option if you want to reap the benefits of machine control technology for your construction company but without the high price tag. Want to learn more about iDig and our other 2D and 3D machine control systems? Speak with one of our experts at GPS …

The construction industry requires precise measurements and extremely accurate work. However humans are imperfect, and the reality is that rework happens more than you’d probably like to admit. When you complete work only to have to re-do it again, the impacts can be devastating for your pocketbook, your crew’s morale, your client relationship, and your company reputation. The cost of construction rework is stunning. Many experts find that rework can cost between 5% to 30% of a project …

Do you still rely on the expertise of your operators to accurately control your earthwork machinery by eye? Do you still need at least two workers every time you need to check grade? What would happen if your most skilled operators quit or retired — are you confident you could find a replacement? Modern machine control systems have become a vital upgrade for many construction companies. You likely have experienced first-hand the impact a shortage of skilled construction workers can have on …

Machine control systems have the potential to enable contractors to exponentially increase their productivity; however, it can be challenging to train your crew on how to use this technology. The good new is that one you fully integrate it into your workflow and have operators who are well-trained on how to use machine control systems, they can more easily train future operators. Additionally, machine control systems can help close skill gaps, enabling less skilled operators to become more …

The transformation of a single plot of land into a freeway, neighborhood, or industrial plant doesn’t happen overnight. Before construction even begins, land surveyors research, measure, calculate, and map the area – providing vital information for the design and construction of the project. While the surveying processing can be a meticulous and time-consuming process, surveying software has greatly streamlined this process in the field and office. As a land surveyor, you are tasked with …

The construction industry is booming, and keeping up with the growing demand has been a significant challenge for business – especially considering the shortage in skilled labor. To meet this demand and grow their profits, many contractors are seeking innovative ways to cut down waste in their processes and utilize advanced technology to increase efficiency.  Business owners are beginning to outsource processes that would typically bog down production and slow down growth, such as …

Machine control systems are the key to unlocking your construction or surveying business’s profitability, but how can you successfully scale your business if you don’t have the funds readily available to upgrade your fleet or purchase the hardware and software you need? Renting machine control equipment in Alaska is a great way to grow at a pace your business can handle.  GPS Alaska rents out a wide range of products from Topcon and other industry-leading manufacturer that are guaranteed to …

Construction companies that utilize 3D machine control technology need a model of the worksite to properly automate and guide earthmoving equipment, such as graders, bulldozers, or excavators. These models can include digital terrain models (DTMs) and triangular irregular networks (TIN), which are often created using data gathered from surveyors on foot or through technology like drones.   Models play an essential role in modern machine control systems; however, having a plan to make these 3D …