geomatics

Geomatics is an interdisciplinary field that deals with the collection, storage, analysis, visualization, and dissemination of geographic information. It combines geomatics engineering, surveying, geodesy, cartography, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS) with spatial data science to model the Earth's surface and connected phenomena. The field supports decision making in public and private sectors by turning measurements into actionable geospatial knowledge.

Core components include data acquisition, data management, spatial analysis, and visualization:

- Data acquisition covers GNSS positioning, terrestrial surveying, photogrammetry, LiDAR, and UAV-borne imagery.

- Data management involves geodatabases, metadata, coordinate reference systems, and standards for interoperability.

- Spatial analysis encompasses spatial querying, topology, network analysis, and modeling.

- Visualization includes map design, 3D models, and web-mapping interfaces.

Standards and data quality: geomatics relies on coordinate reference frames, projections, accuracy assessment, and metadata. International standards from bodies such as the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) and ISO define data formats and services.

Applications are broad, including urban planning, natural resource management, agriculture, transportation, disaster response, environmental monitoring, and public health.

History and scope: geomatics emerged from surveying and cartography and expanded with the development of GIS in the 1960s–70s, the Global Positioning System and other GNSS technologies in the late 20th century, and the rise of LiDAR, photogrammetry, and remote sensing in the 2000s and beyond. Education and practice typically involve degrees in geomatics engineering, geospatial science, or surveying, with professional licensure requirements in many jurisdictions.