ARCGIS COLLECTOR AS A PROSPECTIVE SUBSTITUTE FOR PAPER-BASED GEOLOGIC MAPPING

ESRI’s ArcGIS Collector allows mappers to collect geologic spatial data—points, lines, and polygons complete with numeric, photographic, and textual notes—in the field online and offline. Mappers can then synchronize their work on a common map provided they have cellular service. Without cellular service, data are stored on tablets or smartphones to be synchronized later with the cloud. Other advantages of using the Collector app include the abilities to: 1) map on multiple basemaps (ESRI provided or user generated), 2) view and layer legacy “non-editable” data and newly collected “editable” data, 3) standardize and customize the collection of field data (i.e. Anaconda Mapping Method), 4) store georeferenced photos, and 5) easily import field data into ArcGIS Desktop software. Some shortcomings include, but aren’t limited to: 1) considerable learning curve due to software quirks, 2) set up times can vary widely (minutes to days) depending on project scope, 3) app can be buggy with vague error messages, 4) poor implementation of cartographic standards for geologic symbology, 5) poor implementation of topologic rules for lines and polygons, 6) unable to display stereoscopic imagery, and 7) need for cloudless synchronization across team member devices when working in remote locations. ArcGIS Collector is not a perfect substitute for paper-based geologic mapping, nor is it the only app available. Despite this, it’s a strong contender in the current marketplace of field apps with its myriad of capabilities. Collector can mostly replace the geologist’s fieldbook—save geologic sketches—and partly replaces the map. The necessity of a paper map dissolves more when paired with a field laptop. Thus, mobile technology with ArcGIS Collector minimizes the differences between the field copy and office copy of the geologic map while increasing productivity and effectiveness in the field.