Blog

Welcome to Unearth's knowledge center. We cover the latest news and developments within critical infrastructure sectors.

Explore our blog categories:

Mobile GIS

GIS

Construction Mapping

Mapping Software

Top Risks for Utilities

Lead Service Lines

Construction Tech

Project Management

GIS in Construction: What It Is and Why It Matters

The use of GIS in construction entails organizing project data on an intuitive map – simplifying inspections, progress tracking, photo documentation, and more.

A person uses modern GIS on their smartphone.

Intro to GIS: How It Works and How to Get Started

Geographic information systems (GIS) manage, analyze, and map data, revealing valuable insights. Explore this innovative mapping software in our guide.

A construction worker using a site inspection app on an ipad

Top Construction Site Inspection Software in 2022 - Reviews

Find the best site inspection software for your construction project. Whatever you need to inspect, our top four pics will save you time in your day.

How to Choose the Best Mapping Software for You

Mapping software comes in many forms, and different projects require different tools. Explore four different types of mapping software and review our top picks.

A project manager takes a jobsite photo using a construction photo app on his smartphone.

Top 5 Construction Photo Apps | Software Guide & Reviews

Photo apps make jobsite documentation easy. Check out reviews of our top picks, and say goodbye to manual photo transfer and searching emails, texts, and folders for your images.

A project manager uses as-built software on a tablet.

5 Best Redline Drawing and As-Built Software

Find out how to choose and use redline drawing and as-built software to document construction and deliver an accurate as-built at project close.

a field worker collects data on an ipad using mobile gis

Mobile GIS | Benefits, Use Cases, & Implementation

Field users aren’t GIS specialists. Mobility is key to Mobile GIS, but accessibility is even more critical. Learn how to find Mobile GIS built for the field.

The Cost of Extreme Weather for Utilities in TX, NY, & CA

Texas, California, and New York underscore extreme weather risks, how regulators are responding, and where utilities can innovate to safeguard the grid.

a millennial utility worker holding their helmet

How to Attract and Retain the Next Generation Utilities Workforce

Nearly half the utility industry's workforce is reaching retirement age this decade. Providers must learn how to attract and retain the millennial workforce.

Featured

Why a Digital As-Built Is a Superior Deliverable in Construction

Digital as-builts provide an accurate and complete history of an asset, and are even more effective when they include GIS data.

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A project manager reviewing a digital as-built

a utility expert in cyber supply chain risk management

Software Supply Chain Cybersecurity | Complete Guide

Discover why the software supply chain is vulnerable, explore recent cyberattacks, and review five key steps for effective cyber supply chain risk management.

Two utility workers shaking hands and using digital technology

5 Steps to Getting Started in Digital Transformation | Utilities

Being proactive about digital transformation leads to increased profit. Understand the utility industry's outlook and get started with a five-step framework.

6 Steps to Maximize Your Utility Asset Management Program

Effective asset management increases asset lifespan and minimizes breakdowns for natural gas utilities. This guide is a first step towards an effective program.

two utility transmission lines surrounded by vegetation

How Mobile GIS Streamlines Vegetation Management

With extreme weather, utilities face serious risks in vegetation management. Learn how Mobile GIS can transform inspections, cut costs, and empower the field.

The Urgent Case for Mobile GIS in Utility Storm Response

Utilities are threatened by historic snow, wildfires, and hurricanes. Fortunately, modern technologies - like Mobile GIS - can streamline storm response.

a map of GIS data captured on a mobile device

How to Streamline Field Data Collection with Mobile GIS

Explore key GIS data collection devices, practices, and challenges. See how Mobile GIS increases efficiency, and learn how to implement this tech on your team.

An inspector on a construction site visit.

A Quick Guide to Construction Site Inspections

Discover tips and resources for using inspections to create safer, more efficient jobsites and high-quality projects that are on time and on budget.

How Construction Mapping Software Increases Profit Margins

Learn how construction mapping software improves productivity, why past systems fall short without location-based data, and how to procure the right software.

An Alternative to Google Earth in Construction

Google Earth isn't built for construction, which is a major downside. Fortunately, there's an alternative that can map all of your data: geolocated drawings.

A sewer camera operator inspecting for cross bores

Why Mobile GIS is Critical in Cross Bore Detection and Mitigation

Desktop GIS can't be used by your entire team. Utilities need a field-first, map-based system that optimizes cross bore detection and mitigation: Mobile GIS.

construction photo documentation of infrastructure project

Construction Photo Documentation: All You Need to Know

Your jobsite photos contain layers of valuable data that can improve the construction process. Are you accessing them all?

a construction crew discover the need for rework

How to End Disputes and Rework with Data Management

Data-related problems cause significant revenue loss in construction. Notably, poor data management is central to rework and disputes. But there's another way.

Construction workers in the field with a "work area ahead" sign

Construction Data Management (Everything You Need to Know)

Learn the basics of construction data management and how innovation can save you over $1 million in unproductive expenditures.

A utility worker using Mobile GIS in the field

What is Mobile GIS? Key Traits & Uses

Mobile GIS brings the power and complexity of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data into the field. But it’s also so much more than "GIS on a mobile device."

Two men in hard hats check on construction progress at a job site.

Construction Progress Monitoring and Reporting 101

Learn the basics of progress reporting and monitoring. Up your game with integrated software, real-time field updates, photos, and digital maps.

Unearth's Jay Smith in the field with a natural gas crew

Cincinnati, Ohio: Equipping the Field with Mobile GIS

Unearth visited Cincinnati to support field crews who install natural gas pipes and see firsthand how Mobile GIS can better serve boots on the ground.

Why a Digital As-Built Is a Superior Deliverable in Construction

Digital as-builts provide an accurate and complete history of an asset, and are even more effective when they include GIS data.

Construction project stakeholders examining as-built data

As-Built Drawings in Construction: A Comprehensive Guide

As-built drawings illustrate the “as-built” condition of completed construction. Modern digital as-builts provide greater value than their paper predecessors.

A construction worker using digital maps

5 Ways Digital Maps Can Save You Time on Your Next Project

Construction photos can be geo-located. But why not plans, permits, RFIs, or inspections? See how digital mapping can build a context-rich project record.

Lead Service Line Inventories: Everything You Need to Know

Missing inventory data? You're not alone. Understand the LCRR's inventory requirements and explore how to maximize your resources.

A satellite view of Korea within Unearth's OnePlace platform

A Bird’s Eye View: Unearthing North Korea’s Chemical Weapons

North Korea's chemical weapons are a critical risk to nations around the world - yet few have leveraged remote sensing tools to study this program. That is, until now.

Quick Reference Guide: LCR vs. LCRR vs. LCRI

What's the difference between the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), revisions (LCRR), and improvements (LCRI)? Check out a side-by-side comparison of each EPA rule.

the EPA headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The Complete Guide to the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)

Understanding the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Revisions and upcoming improvements is critical to compliance and ensuring everyone has safe drinking water.

Unearth's rapid damage assessments software

4 Key Traits of Damage Assessment Software

Learn 4 key traits to look for in damage assessment software, and understand why in-house solutions are limited.

How digital twins can transform the entire asset lifecycle

A digital twin built to bridge the field and office can transform the entire value chain from construction site to ongoing O&M.

It's Time to Rethink Damage Assessments

Analog technologies limit field responders. For rapid damage assessments, teams need simple, digital tools to capture, share, and view data in real-time.

The Importance of NERC's CIP-013 in Mitigating Utility Supply Chain Cyberattacks

As supply chain attacks increase, the federal government is mobilizing, but utilities need to take the lead in cybersecurity through robust cyber SCRM.

charts and graphs tracking utility data and industry trends

Why Utility Providers Need Enterprise Risk Management

Utilities need a fresh approach to risk - one that is integrated, holistic, proactive, and strategic. Conversations about risk shouldn’t be relegated to a single department - they should permeate an organization.

arrows rising upward representing growing risks

Top 8 Risks to Critical Infrastructure in 2022

Because the energy sector is rapidly transforming, risk management is key. To become the utility of tomorrow, explore top risks facing the sector today.

a utility crew repairing a distribution pole after a storm

How Extreme Weather Threatens Utility Storm Response

Severe tropical storms pose a serious threat to the grid and a utility’s storm response. With lives at risk, it's urgent utilities streamline field operations.

a wildfire endangering transmission lines

Why Wildfires Are an Existential Threat to Utilities

While a utility doesn't cause a hurricane or deep freeze, they do spark fires, including some of the most devastating on record. To mitigate this unique threat, utilities must innovate in six key areas.

large steel pipes at a highly regulated site

NERC, FERC, and the Uncertain Future of Utility Regulation

With distributed energy resources, a new administration, and recent extreme weather events - urgent questions about regulation's role in energy are beginning to surface.

a laptop computer protected by a blue shield

5 Ways to Prevent Cyberattacks on Critical Infrastructure

Cybersecurity breaches in critical infrastructure networks are increasing. With better understanding of new cybersecurity threats and prompt action - critical infrastructure providers can own the solution.

a network of connected symbols representing regulation and compliance

3 Important Utility Compliance Trends (Updated 2021)

With Biden's new infrastructure plan and high demand for alternative energy - 2021 will be a watershed year for utility regulation and compliance.

a computer screen displaying several video calls

The Complete Guide to Attending a Virtual Event

Virtual events are part of the new normal. While the in-person experience is impossible to fully replicate, there are plenty of ways to enhance your virtual experience.

a project manager leading a team gathered around a table

Everything You Need to Know About Project Management Deliverables

It feels great to complete a project after weeks or months of hard work. When you deliver the final project/product to your client, that is a deliverable.

two utility workers conducting a field survey

Enhancing Utility Operations with Project Management Tools

From connecting data sources to improving risk management - project management tools and techniques can be used across a wide range of utility scenarios.

11 Free (and Awesome) Project Management Softwares in 2022

Not everyone has the budget for paid software subscriptions. Luckily, there are plenty of free project management software options available.

Making Maps 101: Elements, Layout, and Design

Making maps doesn't need to be hard. Explore map making basics, including common map elements, map layout best practices, and an intro to map design.

6 Critical Project Management Skills (And How to Learn Them)

Project management skills are valuable for any career. This guide covers six critical project management skills, plus how you can start learning them today.

a project manager leading a team huddled around a table

Understanding the 4 Core Project Management Methodologies

In project management, the methodology defines not just what you do, but how you do it.

a hand holding a pencil taking notes on GIS

Options for Learning GIS: Degree, Certification, or Online

You want to learn GIS, but don't know where to start. We cover the best ways to learn GIS - with links to GIS tutorials, GIS online courses, and guidance on GIS certification.

How to Optimize Telecom Network Operations with GIS

Telecommunications providers can use GIS to enhance network planning, streamline deployment, and maintain network infrastructure more efficiently.

a model of a city in an urban planning office

Utilizing GIS to Streamline Urban Planning

Learn how GIS is used in urban planning - from resource inventory, to creating land-use maps, to analyzing environmental data.

a globe displaying a map of Africa and Europe

The Long Road to Modern Cartography

Explore modern cartography tools and common applications for cartography in every day life. Plus, a brief history of cartography and it's evolution through the ages.

3 Ways Mobile GIS Simplifies Construction Project Management

Real-time updates, streamlined daily workflows, and all project data in one place. Learn more about the benefits of a using Mobile GIS in construction project management.

7 Cool Creative Maps That Anyone Can Make

Travel planning, zombie escape routes, and the surface of Mars... These are just a few of the unique, interesting maps you can make with GIS tools.

miles of transmission lines crossing the U.S.

GIS for Utilities: Increase Efficiency of Inspections and Maintenance

Explore how utilities can use GIS mapping software to manage utility assets and organize inspection data - optimizing field operations from start to finish.

GIS for Oil & Gas: Optimizing Operations Across Every Sector

From well planning, to pipeline mapping, to refinery management - GIS has many applications across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.

8 Amazing Free GIS Software Options

Reviewing the best free GIS mapping and analysis tools available today. Make GIS maps, visualize data, and conduct geospatial analysis - all for free.

7 Online Map Makers That Will Simplify Your Life in 2022

Make maps at home (and even on your phone) with a simple online map maker. Upload data and share maps - no download, installation, or advanced degree required.

History of Maps: From Ancient Maps to GIS

From cave wall paintings, to the first ever world map, to modern GIS technology - the evolution of maps is a long and winding road.

What is Google Earth?

Google Earth is probably the best known GIS software. Learn about the product's tumultuous history, current versions, and the best available alternatives - now that Google Earth Pro is no longer supported.

Drones in Construction: 5 Steps to Get Started

We’ve got five simple steps to getting started with construction drones. You’ll scale drones to your needs, find where they offer the most value to your company, and avoid splurging on unnecessary costs.

a construction site at a hydroelectric dam

Construction Productivity: Using Technology to Address the Industry's Largest Problem

The construction industry works hard. But, for all the labor that goes into building the modern world, the industry's output over time continues to decline.

a construction crane moving applications on a computer screen

Improving Communications, From Field-to-Office and Office-to-Field

A guide to construction's digital communication future: streamlined data and collaboration on one platform.

a project manager alongside a superintendent

Constructing Success with Rivals: Project Manager vs. Superintendent

A good Project Manager/Superintendent relationship underlies every successful build. Unfortunately, the two often butt heads, hindering construction progress.

Why is Precision Essential for Construction Drawings?

Discover the importance of precision in construction drawings, and how inaccuracy can lead to costly mistakes.

a woman carrying plywood at a construction site

Shattering the Concrete Ceiling: Gender Diversity in Construction

Unearth's guide to gender diversity in the construction industry. Find women in construction statistics, as well as practical tips on how to get started in construction as a woman.

The 2022 Drone Buying Guide

Whether you are buying your first drone, or looking to grow your current fleet, we outline 5 steps to purchasing a drone, and then provide you with our top 5 drone recommendations for the construction industry.

construction software displaying a digital site plan

Software for the Future of Construction

Our guide to the future of construction software. Find out how construction maps will create digital twins of construction sites, ultimately leading to fully automated construction.

How Will Prefabricated Construction & 3D Printing Build Construction's Future?

Prefabricated construction and 3D printing are poised to reshape the industry's physical landscape. We interview the VP of Tech at blokable to get insider insight into the two burgeoning technologies.

UAV Mapping Basics - Why Precision Matters in Drone Surveys

Drone surveying has exploded in popularity over the last few years, but many people still don't understand the importance of precision. We'll explain why you need precision for reliable data and how you can easily get it without buying expensive hardware.

construction tools and clipboards emerging from a cloud

Why is Cloud Computing Critical in the Construction Industry?

Use this guide to get your construction firm in the cloud. If you’re already there, we'll help you figure out if you’re getting the most out of it.

a cloud connecting construction tools across job sites

IoT in Construction, The Big Picture

Our guide to four areas of innovation in construction IoT, leading IoT companies, and the future of connected jobsites.

three office workers using software on laptops

The Top 8 Construction Software Solutions

The construction software market is jam-packed with options. How do you choose the best point solutions for your needs?

What Happens When Tech Enters Construction?

In another post looking at construction’s image problem, we explore why construction is ripe for disruption and what it will look like.

a laptop and mobile devices alongside construction tools and hardhat

Creating a Mobile Strategy for Construction

A guide to understanding construction's current communication standards, assessing how to leverage technology for success, and avoiding communication failures.

a screenshot of a dam project site on OnePlace

How Technology Is Rebuilding Communication in Construction

A guide to understanding construction's current communication standards, assessing how to leverage technology for success, and avoiding communication failures.

How to Rebuild Construction's Image

A practical, grassroots guide to rebuilding construction's image. See how your firm can shift public perception by attracting youth and boosting productivity.

a construction site and half-finished building in the 19th century

Construction’s Image Crisis: Why and How the Industry Needs to Attract Youth

There’s agreement that construction’s biggest issue is productivity, yet one topic remains unaddressed: Why does construction have this problem to begin with?

Why Construction Needs Collaboration

A guide to construction's collaboration problem: the nature of collaboration, why it’s essential to success, and what the industry can do to embrace it.

two field workers collaborating with mobile devices and software

5 Steps to Streamline Communication in Construction

Do you want your builds done under budget and ahead of schedule? It won’t happen without consistently getting one thing right: communication.

a construction helmet on the ground of a project site

Construction Career Guide -- Specialties, Salaries, and Prospects (Updated 2022)

Use this guide to understand the different construction specialties, their salaries, and their employment prospects.

5 Steps to Getting a Construction Job

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction is creating jobs at an average of 20,000 per month in 2017, an increase of 7,000 per month over last year. With so many lucrative positions available, even for those with little experience, now is a fantastic time to think about entering the field.

Construction Project Management 101

Learn the basics of construction project management. This four part guide covers software, project phases, and the vital role of the construction project manager.

Our Favorite GIS Data Collection Tools in 2022

GIS data collection requires the right hardware. This guide covers GPS units, digitizers, mobile devices, and other useful GIS tools.