GIS as a tool in geotechnical engineering

A geographic information system (GIS) is a relatively new software tool for geotechnical engineers. Its capabilities range from conventional data storage to complex spatial analysis and graphical presentation. This paper demonstrates the potential for a GIS to become a powerful, but routine, office tool. It highlights the importance of the geotechnical engineer in both the development and application of the technology. The impact of a GIS within a geotechnical design office is discussed with reference to a number of case histories. These include an archaeological survey, a landscaping assessment, a contaminated land remediation and a construction planning project. Successful application of the technology required a combination of geotechnical knowledge and the GIS-based skills. This was achieved, in practice, by training the geotechnical engineers to be proficient in using the software as well as understanding the GIS concepts. In terms of technical and financial performance, the multi-tasking functionality of the GIS was found to be well-suited to projects in which large quantities of data were analysed. The GIS enabled automation of repetitive and search procedures and quickly became the tool of choice. The GIS opened up opportunities for viewing and analysing data and enhanced the capabilities of the project engineer.