GIS Analysis and Mapping for Informed Decisions
GIS analysis involves interpreting geographical data. GIS software is often paired with collected drone data to allow users to map and visualize an area better. Another common use for GIS is in the trail planning and design process, an industry Planet Zero Gravity specializes in.
How Planet Zero Gravity Uses GIS Software
1) Data Visualization – The generated files created in post-processing after a drone ‘maps’ an area can be exported into GIS for further analysis, or to build a contour map.
2) Asset Logging – GIS software can be used to catalog assets that were logged either from the air or from the ground. These could include points of interest, buildings, historical sites, etc.
3) Trail Mapping and Corridor Analysis – We use GIS to create trail maps and conceptual plans. Are your maps outdated? Often new trails get added to a system, or a trail is rerouted, and maps need to be redone.
Before any trail construction begins, a feasibility study should be undertaken to uncover any potential problems early on. With GIS we can perform a trail grade analysis to make sure the corridor is not too steep (creating future maintenance problems), stays within agreed property boundaries, and does not pass through environmentally sensitive areas. GIS helps to make informed decisions, and is also great for planning maintenance caused by erosion and other natural disasters.