Are you considering investing in mobile mapping technology but don’t know where to begin? You’re in good company—71% of surveying professionals believe that mobile mapping systems are essential for maintaining a competitive edge. To help you make an informed decision, we have answered some of the most common questions and dispelled the myths surrounding this cutting-edge technology.

Q: I already use a terrestrial laser scanner. Why should I switch to mobile mapping?

While terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is effective, mobile mapping solutions offer unprecedented advantages in speed and mobility. Here are five reasons why mobile mapping could revolutionize your operations:

1. Maximize Efficiency and Take On More Projects

On average, mobile mapping systems like the Geosun GS-100G/120G/130G handheld SLAM LiDAR scanners are 10 times faster than traditional TLS surveying methods. A 500 sqm site that typically takes a surveyor 2 hours to capture with TLS can be completed in just 30 minutes using mobile LiDAR mapping. This efficiency not only saves time but also increases your capacity to handle more projects, enabling you to expand your business.

2. Reduce Disruption for Clients

Mobile mapping allows for faster, less intrusive spatial data capture, minimizing disruption on active and sensitive sites like hospitals, production facilities, or construction projects. This is a significant advantage for clients who need to maintain operations while surveys are conducted.

3. Deliver Enhanced Client Solutions

Mobile mapping is not just about faster workflows—it’s about providing better deliverables. Platforms like the Geosun Point Cloud Automata create immersive, highly detailed 3D digital twins of real-world environments, enabling your clients to visualize, collaborate, and make decisions faster. This reduces the likelihood of project errors and speeds up the decision-making process.

4. Win More Contracts and Boost Profitability

Mobile mapping technology helps you become more competitive in the market by shortening project timelines and optimizing workflows. Whether you decide to improve your profit margins or adjust your pricing to win more business, the efficiency gains from mobile LiDAR can directly impact your bottom line.

5. Future-Proof Your Business

Mobile mapping opens the door to new markets and applications that traditional surveying tools can’t handle. By diversifying your services and capabilities, you reduce risk and future-proof your revenue streams, ensuring long-term business growth.

2. Reduce Disruption for Clients

Mobile mapping allows for faster, less intrusive spatial data capture, minimizing disruption on active and sensitive sites like hospitals, production facilities, or construction projects. This is a significant advantage for clients who need to maintain operations while surveys are conducted.

Q: Is mobile mapping less accurate than other surveying tools?

Accuracy is a common concern, but not all mobile mapping systems are created equal. The tool you choose should depend on the Level of detail required for the project. For example, the Geosun GS-100G/120G/130G handheld SLAM LiDAR scanners can deliver up to 1cm range accuracy. If sub-1cm accuracy is necessary, mobile LiDAR systems can be seamlessly integrated into a hybrid workflow, combining the power of mobile mapping with tools like total stations, TLS, or GNSS rovers for enhanced precision.

Q: Will my team need extensive training to use mobile mapping technology?

Introducing new technology always requires some training, but mobile mapping systems are designed to be user-friendly. Training programs—available both in-person and remotely—are flexible and tailored to the experience level of your team. With the right guidance, your surveyors will be up and running with mobile mapping technology quickly, helping you unlock the full potential of your investment.

By embracing mobile mapping, you can elevate your business to new heights—improving efficiency, minimizing client disruption, and providing better deliverables. Whether you're looking to streamline workflows, expand into new markets, or gain a competitive edge, mobile mapping technology offers the versatility and scalability you need to stay ahead in the surveying industry.