Articles

If Godzilla were real, GPRS would find him, and SiteMap® (patent pending), powered by GPRS,  would then be able to map him. While Godzilla (hopefully) isn’t real, there is a monster, an absolute beast that lies below our feet, and that’s our subsurface utility assets....

It’s been at least 64 years since Roger Tomlinson coined the term “geographic information system” (although some source mid-to-late 60s.) The world was on the cusp of leaving behind the greatest generation to forge a new one. JFK was elected president, Vietnam was a...

In the realm of urban development, construction, and infrastructure maintenance, there lies a hidden world beneath our feet. This world offers a complex city of its own - a labyrinth of underground utilities that power our cities and communities. Navigating this...

Infrastructure has changed a lot over the last fifty years alone. From towns with a few light pole, to bulging metropolises, things aren’t slowing down anytime soon. From urban development to transportation networks, the effective utilization of resources and the...

Just thirty years ago, your computer used to scream at you when it had to get online. And going online was just short of an event. These days, most things are done online; we’re used to how it works, and it’s changing rapidly. In this landscape, the management of IT...

Infrastructure management has changed rapidly and continues to do so. The advent of digital mapping has upgraded the ability to effectively visualize, analyze, and manage assets. As urbanization rates continue to rise and infrastructure networks expand, the demand for...

By 2050, it is estimated that 7 out of every 10 people will live in a city or urban area. As urbanization intensifies and infrastructure networks expand, the demand for comprehensive solutions to navigate the subsurface environment continues to grow. SiteMap® (patent...

The average depth of the ocean floor bed is just over 12,000 feet. The deepest part of the ocean is called the Challenger Deep, and it’s estimated to run 35,867 feet deep. The world below our feet is vast, from the ocean to the soil beneath your favorite geraniums....

Back To The Future would have been a different movie series if Doc had access to SiteMap®. Despite his genius, he wasn’t always the best at managing where assets existed. While Doc may only exist in a movie, his geolocational problem exists for many in real life. The...

Japan stands as a global leader, renowned for its cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches to optimizing urban environments. With Japan’s government pumping over $2.3 billion per year into their universities and science programs, it's no wonder that they...

As we stride forward in the 21st century, our reliance on buried infrastructure has never been more profound. From telecommunications to water and sewer systems, these underground networks pump life through our modern society. However, with the privilege of access...

The telecommunications industry has changed over the last 30 years, from several regulated natural monopolies to an industry that is economically capable of supporting multiple service providers in diverse markets. As a result, Congress, in the Telecommunications Act...

Dieser Satz wurde auf Deutsch geschrieben. Which translates to, “That sentence was written in German,” and while it may not be quite right for the USA, it’s not wrong either. It’s merely different. Regional differences exist within every facet of our collective human...

According to the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) there are between 400,000 and 500,000 utility strikes reported in the US each year, many of them from excavators commonly used in construction.  In construction projects, risk mitigation stands as a critical imperative for...

The massive boom in manufacturing and infrastructure projects in the U.S. means that now, more than ever, pinpointing the location of subsurface utilities can be a matter of life or death. Precision matters, and there's no room for guesswork.  American infrastructure...

Everything is about efficiency. From predicting traffic light changes to optimizing manufacturing processes, technology has continually aimed to streamline operations and improve outcomes. Since the invention of fire, humanity has been putting two and three together...

Imagine being told to draw an apple with great detail. Your visualization has to reflect exactly what the apple looks like, or your entire neighborhood may blow up. Suddenly, every pencil stroke you take is an additional risk to your community.  While it may seem...

Understanding the intricacies of data can be as complex as the infrastructure projects it supports. For construction professionals tasked with tackling ever-evolving infrastructure challenges, a firm grasp of data terminology is not just beneficial; it's...

In the intricate dance of infrastructure development, compliance isn't just a buzzword that is tossed around and muttered, but rather the cornerstone that ensures safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Civil Engineers and Infrastructure Project Managers know too well...

The construction industry is often associated with hard hats and heavy machinery, yet in our digital age, it’s increasingly a story of bytes and bandwidth. The quest for improving digital accessibility in construction infrastructure is not just about staying ahead;...

Infrastructure is rapidly changing and evolving, much like the world around it. This change demands robust data management systems that can keep up with its dynamism. For professionals in infrastructure and data management, staying ahead involves harnessing innovative...

“Skee Erwoooeeee…” No, that’s not nonsense, that’s the sound your computer used to make when it was signing online or sometimes if the phone was about to ring (and kick you offline) while you are handling some heavy data, which back in 1999, was likely just by...

Turn off your lights. Now go to your kitchen, and in the pitch dark, try to make a cup of coffee. Try to cook dinner. You may have a general idea of where everything is, and sure, you may be able to get the water in the pot, but chances are that without proper vision,...

Imagine calling a number and listening to soft jazz for 35 minutes as you wait for an operator to answer, only to have them transfer you as you listen to the greatest elevator hits of 1978. That used to be the norm for customer service lines, but technology has been...

In today's fast-paced world, the need for efficient and accurate infrastructure planning has become more crucial than ever. With the rapid growth of urbanization and the increasing demand for sustainable development, traditional methods of infrastructure planning are...

Facility management and construction have long grappled with the complexities of mapping and maintaining utility infrastructure. Most people never give second thought to the city below their feet. That is, unless you live in Seattle, where you’re able to tour the...

Imagine if you could open a map and have the pages spring to life with detailed information about utilities, structures, and more? What if seeing below the ground was as easy as opening your smartphone? What if collaboration was as simple as pressing a few buttons?...

In the world of civil engineering and utility management, the ability to visualize complex data is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. When infrastructure projects sprawl across large landscapes and need meticulous planning, professionals turn to data visualization...

The surge of smart city initiatives globally has ushered in an era of unprecedented urban transformation. Smart city initiatives encompass comprehensive efforts to leverage advanced technologies and data-driven solutions to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and...

As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the construction industry is under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices. This is fueled by the understanding that construction is one of the most...

As the world of facility management continues to evolve with technological advancements, the ability to cross-reference data with efficiency and accuracy becomes crucial. The SiteMap® Mobile App (patent pending), powered by GPRS, emerges as a powerful ally for...

SiteMap® (patent pending) is a powerful and comprehensive tool that enhances how project managers look at their work site. Years ago, these professionals would have to rely on cumbersome physical maps that were fragile, hard to keep track of, and hard to share with...

Geographic Information System (GIS) technology is a powerful tool that enables the collection, analysis, interpretation, and visualization of spatial and geographic data. At its core, GIS integrates various data types such as maps, satellite imagery, and geospatial...

The age of digitization has brought about a seismic shift in the management of critical infrastructure, where access to accurate data isn't just advantageous—it's imperative. Because the vast majority (97%) of Americans own a cellphone of some kind, and 85% own...

In today's fast-paced world where data is king and expansion is rapid, managing infrastructure assets efficiently is the cornerstone of any successful project. SiteMap® (patent pending), powered by GPRS, emerges as a game-changer in this realm, offering unmatched...

Archaeology and historic preservation are disciplines that require a delicate balance between modernity and tradition. As we step into an era where technology assists in unraveling the mysteries of the past, tools like SiteMap® (patent pending) backed by GPRS, become...

Imagine a place where all your information and data are stored together. A place where your data is organized, tagged, aggregated, and available 24/7 in a secure online software platform where it is easy to search and share. There are many underground utility...

In today's rapidly evolving and expanding world, the need for efficient and reliable infrastructure (and its data) has become more crucial than ever. This is especially true in the United States, where the infrastructure is deteriorating so badly that it’s considered...

The year is 1979, and you just heard something big explode somewhere outside. You rush to your door, searching for its source. The sound was so startling and heavy that it rattled your walls, your sunburst clock fell to the avocado shag rug below it. When you open the...

Cartography, once the art of manhandling hulking maps, has been brought into the digital age. Within the construction industry, this transformation is both radical and vital. Here we delve into the linchpin technology of SiteMap® (patent pending) and its metamorphic...

The electric power industry is preparing for up to a tripling of US electricity demand within the next few decades. This means that there will be more facility managers in need of accurate data to help manage and lead this growth. SiteMap® (patent pending) stands as a...

It’s 1912, and it’s a gorgeous, clear, crisp night as you stroll the deck of one of the finest ships you’ve ever seen. Nobody has seen anything quite like it! In fact, you may have heard someone refer to the ship as nearly unsinkable. If you haven’t seen the movie,...

In an era dominated by data-driven decision-making, the ability to extract meaningful insights from complex information is a game-changer. Even literal games now rely on data to make decisions, including the MLB, who uses a data collection system utilizing cameras and...

The evolution of construction technology mirrors the transformative journey of the internet. From its early fragmented stages to a more integrated and seamless landscape, innovation has become the cornerstone of progress. Just as the internet revolutionized...

In 2021, the United States construction industry had the highest number of fatal work-related accidents resulting in 1,015 deaths, and most of these were the result of human error. In an industry as intricate and multifaceted as construction, the significance of data...

In an age where data reigns supreme, the ability to derive actionable insights from complex information is invaluable. We rely on data for just about everything, from geospatial construction project solutions to Christmas tree farming. SiteMap® (patent pending) is a...

Managing subsurface utility data is a complex endeavor, often characterized by challenges in accuracy, accessibility, and organization. There is a lot going on in the world that you don’t see:, for every city above ground, there is another complex city of pipes,...

Do you know how the pyramids were built? Nobody really does, but the most likely answer is that the Egyptians used a sloping and encircling embankment of brick, sand, and earth, which was increased in height and length as the pyramid rose. Stone blocks were then...

More than 50% of workers in the USA say that their job relies on collaboration. In the realm of project management, collaboration and seamless data sharing are the cornerstones of success. With SiteMap's (patent pending) Project level subscription, users are given...

Imagine a forest so dense that ferns grow up and tickle your calves, and the light only filters through to sections of land that the trees allow it to grace. You’re in a capsule of green, lonesome birds, trees, and water, where the world is silently buzzing below and...

What if you held data in your smartphone, your computer, or your tablet that could carefully map where one of the first sewage systems in your town once existed? Depending on the data, and what remains, mapping our history like this is a very real application of...

In the realm of infrastructure management, success stories often paint the clearest picture of a service's effectiveness. SiteMap®, the frontrunner in comprehensive infrastructure management solutions, is poised to transform various sectors with its innovative...

It’s 1978, you’re in the passenger seat of your best friend’s new Volkswagen Beetle. You’re staring at a map made in 1973, but it’s not quite matching the road in front of you. “Try the 77 edition,” your friend says, and suddenly it’s like the road opens and the world...

In the realm of geospatial solutions, the choices are abundant, each promising unique features and advantages. One standout player in this field is SiteMap®, a comprehensive platform that boasts powerful geospatial capabilities and subsurface infrastructure...

The landscape of urban living is evolving. Cities are embracing technological advancements to become smarter, more efficient, and sustainable. To live in and develop a smart city, you must think smarter, even when it comes to the subsurface. Technology is fueling a...

Streamlined operations mean better public services. From road repairs to utility maintenance, SiteMap’s approach translates into enhanced services for residents. In fact, many studies have suggested as much. One of the first, by Purdue University in 1999, estimated...

In an ever changing world, it’s easy to lose touch with what used to be there. After all, we exist on a highway of technology and information where it’s often hard to pull off and take a glimpse of what used to be. Sometimes this means hitting a piece of a fence...

Would you believe it if we told you that there is currently no true, accurate data for the total amount of miles of utilities that exist underground? In 1994, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) hosted a damage prevention workshop during which Bell...

Imagine that it’s December of 1812, you’re a young professional, standing in the center of the town of Alta California, and the ground starts to shake. Pandemonium takes hold, buildings let out terrible groans, and as you drop to the floor you notice that the church...

One of GPRS’ favorite construction industry initiatives is National Safe Digging Month. Celebrated each April, NDSM boosts awareness and activities that promote safe digging practices. Recognized by the United States Congress and most state governors, this month of...

Subsurface utilities demand respect during digging and construction. Incomplete utility mapping often fails to represent the multidimensional nature of utility infrastructure, which can cause problems down the line. This information may also exist in physical form...

Municipal workers are the backbone of a community. The duties of municipal workers vary greatly, from accounting and permit processing, to law enforcement and emergency response. Municipal workers visit all corners of their communities to service residents and...

As a facility manager, engineer, or project manager, making crucial decisions is a daily task. It is important to have accurate information so you can make the best of each project. As a new or existing GPRS customer, you can have access to a complimentary SiteMap®...

Subsurface utility mapping or underground utility mapping is a crucial process in the construction industry. It involves identifying and locating the location of utility lines, such as water, gas, and sewer lines before any construction work begins. Yet, the process...

As technology advances, so does the demand for safe and efficient excavation practices. Hitting an underground utility line can cause significant damage, injuries, and even fatalities. Repairing underground utilities can be costly and delay construction projects. This...

Here at SiteMap®, powered by GPRS, we are more than just a standard facility management software; we are Collaboration Redefined™. Our innovative GIS software platform offers customizable data storage, mapping, and modeling solutions that go above and beyond the usual...

GPRS, SiteMap’s founding company, is committed to the safety of every kind of construction project and the dedicated teams working on them. Our entire team prioritizes the safety of you, your team, and you job site so that you can go home at the end of the day, proud...

SiteMap®, powered by GPRS, goes above and beyond any standard GIS or cloud-based infrastructure management platform. With SiteMap®, facility managers are empowered with the digital tools they need to streamline communication, organization, and safety on their...

How Engineers Can Save Time and Resources With GPR & SiteMap® Engineers in the construction industry are familiar with time and resource constraints. This happens with many projects. Time is of the essence, and money and materials are finite. Using tools and...

The field of GIS technology and cloud-based infrastructure management solutions has been continuously growing to meet the unique needs of facility managers and their construction teams. A stand-out leader among the available solutions is SiteMap®, powered by GPRS....

SiteMap® FAQ: How Accurate Is This System, and Is Data Updated In Real Time? In partnership with FINCH Brands, SiteMap®, powered by GPRS, conducted a large-scale survey of 110 qualified facility managers actively working within the construction industry. This study...

SiteMap®, powered by GPRS, is a singular subsurface infrastructure mapping solution which allows facility managers and their teams to store, map, model, and share their facility data with ease. This industry-leading platform provides construction industry leaders and...

FINCH Brands, a premier consumer insights firm, recently performed a large-scale survey of qualified facility management respondents within the construction industry. These 110 respondents, who were vetted for their level of experience and management responsibilities,...

With the amazing capabilities of SiteMap®, powered by GPRS, facility managers and their teams are provided with the modern digital tools they need to Visualize the Built World™ while collaborating better than ever before. Be it 3D Laser Scanning, Utility Locating, or...

Underground Mapping Solutions for Municipalities Whether you are managing a commercial, residential, or industrial construction project, it is crucial to properly maintain all your facility’s required permits, job site evaluation data, and most recent maps and models....

In one of our recent SiteMap® articles, we broke down the four major costs and pitfalls any construction project can actively avoid by transitioning to a digital infrastructure management solution. SiteMap’s digital planning tools can especially help mitigate these...

SiteMap®, powered by GPRS takes collaborative construction to the next level, providing accurate, 3D visualizations of your entire job site, both above and below ground, with the ability to update and share information across multiple teams in real time. ‍GIS...

SiteMap®, powered by GPRS, aims to empower facility managers and their teams as they pivot to completely paperless, centralized methods of data storage with industry leading infrastructure management software capabilities. The move towards paperless forms of working...

With SiteMap®, powered by GPRS, facility managers and their teams are provided with a fully comprehensive and accurate visualization of their site. Positive residential construction trends reported this month have left residential builders “cautiously optimistic.”...

It was recently announced that Tesla has agreed to make their growing network of charging stations available to non-Tesla electric vehicles, through funding support from the U.S. Government. As reported by the LA Times, this deal is “part of the Biden administration’s...

‍Construction Industry News: $139 Million for the New LA/California Airport Expansion Project In a recent press release by the U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Dianne Feinstein, it was announced that “$139.5 million in grant funding from the Federal Aviation...

Mislocation of subsurface infrastructure is the main cause of utility damage in construction projects. Damage dealt to necessary utility lines, such as electricity lines, gas lines and water lines results in a plethora of complications. When you have a utility strike,...

A major $4 billion blueprint was just presented by the Biden Administration as part of the expansive infrastructure law passed last year. What could be the project with such a massive price tag? It’s the 150-year-old Amtrak rail tunnel in Maryland. As the latest...

Common Misconceptions of Maintaining Public & As Built Data Accuracy When collaborating across multiple teams on a construction project, especially those of larger size and complexity, the amount of paperwork and planning required to stay on track throughout the...

3 Ways Digital Construction Tools Support LEAN Construction Projects LEAN construction methodologies are arguably the most collaborative and efficient within the construction industry. The Lean Construction Institute defines LEAN Construction as a process of project...

In a recent interview with Zander Seaman, a veteran leak detection Project Manager, we asked him about his experience with collecting important information, especially as-builts, while working on project sites. Due to his many years of experience, he said, “I prove...

As advancements in hardware and software technology continue to lead the charge of digital transformation, various traditional industries will be required to shift their strategies – construction being one of them. Connected Construction is defined by Deloitte as a...

The recent "Buildings Construction Market" Report contains valuable insights on the global construction industry. These forecasts project from 2023 all the way out to 2028. As further explained by experts at MarketWatch, this report covers a “specified competitive...

Every construction project, be it for a new bridge, road, educational campus, etc., presents its own unpredictable challenges. The requirements for scanning and modeling a site for a new school playground pose completely different challenges compared to the...

Construction will begin this year on the new $1.4 billion stadium for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills. This project, based in Orchard Park, New York, will initiate in the spring of 2023 and is projected to finish by the 2026 season. Last March, New York Governor Kathy Hochul...

Supplier EV Plant Construction Project Just before the new year, BMW announced the initiation of a massive new construction project. This project is “an $810 million EV [electric vehicle] battery supply plant in Florence County, South Carolina.” With the help of their...

Leaks and water main breaks can cause major damage by eroding soil and therefore creating underground voids. These voids can then severely compromise the integrity of buildings long before any water can even be seen at the surface. This issue is far more common than...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Construction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is proving applicable across a variety of industries and construction is no exception. In fact, Artificial Intelligence use within the Construction market was recently valued at 519.63 million...

The Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) Report provided by The Common Ground Alliance (CGA) and their Data Reporting & Evaluation Committee has provided a fully comprehensive analysis “of damages to buried infrastructure in the U.S. and Canada.” Within this...

‍A construction worker was killed and three others were injured in a sudden bridge collapse in Clay County, Missouri. "The two lane bridge...about 27 miles northeast of Kansas City," while workers were in the process of pouring concrete according to the Clay County...

The Top Three Utility Locating Errors and How to Avoid Them‍ The Common Ground Alliance (CGA) and their Data Reporting & Evaluation Committee have  issued their latest comprehensive account and analysis “of damages to buried infrastructure in the U.S. and Canada”...

The Benefits of Going Paperless: Maintaining Proper Construction Documentation with SiteMap®  Recent reporting by FINCH Brands found that a major pain point for many construction projects and their facility managers is that there are too many files saved/stored in...

The Benefits of Going Paperless: Maintaining Proper Construction Documentation with SiteMap®  How Facility Management Software Supports Construction Projects: Civil Road & Bridge Over the past few years, there have been growing concerns about the state of...