The convergence of Computer Aided Design (CAD) and GIS is not a new idea. In the last few years we’ve seen great advances in bringing these related but disparate disciplines together to ensure effective planning and management of location information.

These days, CAD and GIS data stores are often combined and accessed via new software which has enhanced the viewing and analysis of these important data types. Using them together leads to more efficient and accurate planning which in turn means fewer potential legal complications and a reduced risk of potentially costly errors on site.

 However, the encouraging developments in CAD/GIS convergence are just the first steps in unlocking the power of this data. In general, the current software offerings still place this data in the hands of a few experts: CAD Engineers/Operators, GIS Officers, Analysts and Managers. There is no disputing that it takes an expert hand to create a complex, accurate, and high quality CAD drawing. But we live in a highly educated and technological age. These designs and the subsequent data they produce can be interpreted and utilised by many more users than is the case at present.

The merging of CAD and GIS makes mapping assets easier

 

When dealing with any asset or estate management, health and safety concern or planning issue, it would be hugely useful to have the design of any building or location integrated into the data management software being used. This is a key feature of Sigma Seven’s GeoField where a field user can pin a CAD drawing to a location, or, alternatively have the original CAD designs available for viewing as a referable layer or even combined as a viewing layer over the backdrop mapping.

 

Through good practice and legal necessity, businesses produce expensive and high quality CAD drawings which are in turn invaluable location data sources. Make sure your business is exploiting and utilising this resource to its full potential.