5 Essential Mapping Software Features for Environmental Professionals

Are you tired of juggling complex environmental projects? As a scientist or engineer in the environmental industry, you have a lot on your plate - from managing field teams to creating accurate figures based on collected data. With so many software options out there, it's hard to know what features will simplify your day and get you one step closer to landing that big contract.

That's where this blog comes in - we've compiled a list of the top features you should look for in mapping and modeling software for the environmental industry. With our help, you'll be able to leverage your expertise and inform stakeholders of exactly what's happening at their site. 

What features do you need when purchasing software for environmental projects? 

1. Gridding
2. Map layer options
3. Customizable properties
4. Easy to combine map layers
5. Exporting options

Gridding

Gridding is the process of transforming randomly spaced data into an evenly spaced grid, also known as a raster. By feeding raw data into a gridding algorithm, you can transform field data of any kind. Pressure readings from monitor wells, chemical concentrations, subsurface contamination, temperature, electrical resistivity, or elevation. Any variable you can associate to location data in a XYZ or XYZC format can be gridded.

Map Layer Options

A grid or raster on its own doesn't mean much. You need an arsenal of map layer options to convert your gridded data into a map that tells the story of your site. Including, but not limited to, contours, color relief, 3D surface, watershed, post, and base map layers.

Customizable Properties

Its not always enough to create a basic map and show clients the facts. To land the job, your presentation figures need to look their best. Software that offers customization options that help you finetune your final output will ensure you leave that lasting impression.

Easy to Combine Map Layers

Context is key. Stakeholders don't always have the same level of expertise that you do. Most of the time they need more than just a contour map to grasp the situation. You need a mapping software that can easily add layers to facilitate their understanding such as aerial imagery, or site plans. DXF, SHP, KML, and TIFF files are just a few of the file types you should confirm your software can import and combine with your original map. Providing you with the tools to combine all your hard work into a powerful figure.  

Export Options

 No project is complete until the final report figures are in a shareable format. Whether your client prefers an image file, PDF, data sheet, or even more industry specific formats; Surfer most likely has an option to meet your needs. Even more than just offering an expansive list of export options, Surfer has file specific export features to help customize the deliverable to your specifications. Making sure that your mapping software can export, save, and print in the formats you need is vital for future environmental remediation success. 

Ready to take your environmental mapping and modeling to the next level? Make sure to look for these essential features when purchasing your software. With Surfer, you can transform your hard-earned data into insightful final outputs with ease. Optimize your workflows and leave a lasting impression on clients by downloading the Surfer Free Trial today.

Download the Surfer Free Trial