New Standards for Public Surveying: Enabling Single-Operator Surveys with High-Precision GNSS

Table of Contents

• What the new public surveying standards mean

• Traditional surveying work and manpower challenges

• Advances and advantages of GNSS surveying technology

• Introduction of high-precision GNSS in public surveying

• Why high-precision GNSS makes single-operator surveying possible

• Benefits of single-operator surveying

• Main use cases where single-operator surveying shines

• Future outlook: transition to smart surveying

• Simple surveying with LRTK

• FAQ

What the new public surveying standards mean

In recent years, a major paradigm shift has been underway in the world of surveying. In the field of public works, indispensable “public surveying” is beginning to adopt new standards through the introduction of the latest technologies. That is the realization of “surveys that can be done by a single operator” using high-precision GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). Traditionally, public surveying was conducted by teams of multiple people. With a declining workforce due to an aging population and fewer births, along with labor-reform trends, there is growing momentum to reconsider the traditional large-team approach. The spread of high-precision GNSS positioning technology, however, is expanding the possibility that a single surveyor can complete accurate survey tasks. The Geospatial Information Authority of Japan (GSI) has formally introduced new GNSS-based surveying methods into public surveying starting in Reiwa 7 (2025), establishing new standards aimed at improving efficiency and productivity. This article explains these new standards for public surveying, compares them with traditional surveying methods, outlines high-precision GNSS technology, and details the benefits of single-operator surveying. Finally, using the latest tool LRTK as an example, we show how anyone can easily perform single-operator surveys.

Traditional surveying work and manpower challenges

First, let’s look back at traditional surveying methods. For many years, it has been commonplace for surveying sites to operate with a team of multiple people. For example, when measuring land boundaries or control points, the basic two-person workflow consists of one person operating surveying equipment such as a total station and another person standing at the observation point holding a rod with a prism. In leveling surveys to measure elevation differences, a survey technician and an assistant holding the leveling rod work as a pair. Thus, traditional surveying required at least two people, making securing personnel a challenge. In particular, surveys on large sites or in rugged terrain could be delayed or burdened by manpower shortages. Working in teams also requires communication, adding time and introducing the risk of human error in transmitting instructions. One promising solution to these issues is single-operator surveying enabled by the latest GNSS technology.

Advances and advantages of GNSS surveying technology

The advent of satellite-based positioning technology (GNSS: Global Navigation Satellite System) has revolutionized surveying methods. Whereas surveying once involved measuring linear distances and angles between an instrument and a target, it is now possible to use multiple satellite systems simultaneously—GPS, Russia’s GLONASS, Europe’s Galileo, and China’s BeiDou—so that increased satellite availability improves positioning stability. GNSS surveying determines position by receiving radio signals from multiple satellites overhead. Satellite positioning, typified by GPS, is effective for mountainous and wide-area surveys where maintaining line-of-sight is difficult, enabling rapid measurement of a large number of points. In particular, high-precision GNSS surveying can achieve centimeter-level accuracy (half-inch accuracy) in real time using a method called RTK (Real Time Kinematic). RTK achieves high precision by communicating correction information in real time between a base station with known coordinates and a rover (mobile unit) to cancel out satellite positioning errors. Recently, network RTK, which uses the GSI’s dense network of continuously operating GNSS stations (GEONET: about 1,300 GNSS reference stations nationwide) and private reference station networks to obtain correction data via the Internet, has become widespread. This allows high-precision positioning in the field with just a single GNSS receiver. Furthermore, by using Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System “Michibiki” and its centimeter-level positioning augmentation service (CLAS) (half-inch accuracy), it is possible to receive correction information directly from satellites and achieve centimeter accuracy even when nearby base stations are not available. GNSS technology continues to advance year by year, improving positioning accuracy and expanding usable environments. Compared with traditional surveying instruments, GNSS surveying offers high mobility and the significant advantage of efficiently covering wide areas.

Introduction of high-precision GNSS in public surveying

The convenience and accuracy of high-precision GNSS are bringing transformation to the field of public surveying. As a recent technological trend, the GSI has been preparing standards for the use of GNSS in public surveying. In April of Reiwa 7 (2025), GNSS-based leveling (GNSS height surveying) was formally introduced into public surveying. This method calculates bench mark elevations by combining the new geoid model “Geoid 2024” with continuously operating reference station data, and it relaxes some of the restrictions that had been imposed under conventional leveling (third-order leveling). With this new standard, it has become possible to efficiently determine a stable height reference that is less affected by crustal movement even between distant points. For example, to obtain elevation differences between distant points, traditional methods required extensive leveling through many intermediate benchmarks, but GNSS height surveying can connect both points in a short time. Errors accumulated over long leveling lines that used to be a problem are expected to be resolved by direct GNSS positioning combined with a high-precision geoid model. In addition, GNSS is increasingly used for horizontal public surveying. By using continuously operating reference stations as known control points, coordinates that conform to the public coordinate system can be obtained with short observation times. For example, using network RTK in the field makes it possible to swiftly perform control point surveys (such as third-order control points), streamlining work compared with traditional traverse surveys. Because GNSS-based surveying methods have been officially recognized, the groundwork is being laid for efficient single-operator surveying even in public surveying practice. By using equipment and techniques compliant with the new standards, a small number of personnel can now obtain survey results that meet the needs of public works.

Why high-precision GNSS makes single-operator surveying possible

So, why does introducing high-precision GNSS make “single-operator surveying” possible? Here are the main reasons.

• No surveying assistant required: GNSS surveying measures your current position directly from satellite signals. Unlike conventional methods, there is no need for another person to stand at the survey point holding a target (prism or rod), so points can be observed without an assistant.

• Accurate coordinates available in real time: RTK-GNSS provides high-precision positioning results on the spot. Because you can check observation results as you go, a single operator can quickly notice and correct measurement mistakes, reducing the need for mutual checks among multiple people.

• High mobility and wide-area coverage: A single person carrying a receiver can cover a large survey area simply by walking. There is no need to re-establish instruments or coordinate movements among personnel when moving between points, allowing continuous and efficient observations.

• Data are automatically recorded and shared: GNSS receivers and controller devices (tablets, etc.) record observation data electronically. There is no need to transcribe numbers into a field notebook, so no dedicated recorder is required. With cloud-enabled systems, data collected by a single operator can be shared with the office immediately.

Benefits of single-operator surveying

Single-operator surveying enabled by high-precision GNSS brings various benefits in field operations and overall project management. Key advantages include:

• Improved efficiency through labor reduction: Because surveys can be conducted with fewer people, time and effort spent arranging personnel are reduced. A single operator can perform multiple roles, dramatically increasing field productivity.

• Cost reduction: Labor costs and travel expenses related to surveying can be reduced. Since sites that previously required two or more people can be handled by one person, daily allowances and equipment transport costs are also lowered.

• Rapid data acquisition and decision-making: GNSS can obtain required survey data in a short time, enabling quick compilation of survey results and faster incorporation into design. This supports shorter construction schedules and faster decision-making.

• Flexible response to small-scale projects: Because a single person can easily go to the field, additional measurements or ad-hoc surveys can be handled promptly. Smaller worksites or supplementary surveys can be conducted more readily and accurately than before.

• Immediate use of digital data: GNSS survey coordinates are recorded electronically on-site. There is no need to later digitize paper notebooks, and numeric data can be imported directly into CAD drawings or GIS. It is easier to share data between field and office, contributing to DX (digital transformation).

• Reduced workload and improved safety: Equipment is lighter and simpler to carry, reducing the burden of hauling heavy tripods and surveying instruments. The need to work for long periods in hazardous locations is also reduced, improving worker safety.

• Reduction of human error: Because GNSS devices automatically record numbers, transcription errors or misreadings are greatly reduced. Observation variance decreases and the quality stability of survey results is improved.

Main use cases where single-operator surveying shines

Single-operator surveying using high-precision GNSS is powerful across a variety of surveying tasks. Representative scenarios include:

• Control point surveys and leveling: For control points and benchmarks required for roads and land development, GNSS efficiently provides coordinates and elevations. Single-operator observations make it quick to place points over wide areas.

• Topographic surveys and as-built/quality control: For site topography surveys and as-built (post-construction shape) measurements, a GNSS rover can collect many terrain points simply by walking. Tasks that once required multiple people for as-built checks can now be measured swiftly by one person.

• Disaster surveys and facility management: In high-mobility, urgent situations—such as measuring damage after a disaster or periodic inspection surveys of infrastructure—single-operator surveying is effective. Rapid deployment to a site and immediate survey start, with real-time data sharing, support initial response and maintenance management.

Future outlook: transition to smart surveying

High-precision GNSS technology that enables single-operator surveying will continue to evolve and spread. As ICT and DX (digital transformation) advance across the construction industry and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism promotes i-Construction, surveying work is shifting toward smarter workflows. For example, combining drone photogrammetry or mobile LiDAR point-cloud surveys with GNSS allows a single operator to perform extensive, detailed 3D surveys. In the field, examples are already increasing of operators carrying GNSS receivers and tablets to perform solo topographic surveys, or equipping heavy machinery with GNSS so a single operator can carry out construction and as-built measurement simultaneously. Adapting to these innovations does require surveyors to become familiar with new equipment and software, but growing numbers of easy-to-use products lessen concerns. Indeed, the emergence of intuitive smartphone apps and cloud-connected surveying devices is creating an environment that is accessible to both younger and veteran technicians. In the future, “one survey instrument per person” is expected to become the norm, and a time when anyone can obtain survey data when needed is anticipated.

Simple surveying with LRTK

One of the tools supporting this new era of single-operator surveying is LRTK. LRTK is an innovative surveying system that combines a smartphone with an ultra-compact high-precision GNSS receiver, enabling centimeter-level positioning (half-inch accuracy) without specialized surveying instruments. A thin device that attaches to a smartphone and a dedicated app realize an all-in-one workflow from positioning and recording to point-cloud measurement and AR-based position confirmation. For example, with LRTK, you can go to the field with a single pocket-sized device, point your smartphone at the point to be measured, press a button, and record the latitude, longitude, and elevation of that point with high accuracy. Collected data are immediately saved and shared to the cloud, eliminating the need to later extract data via USB after returning to the office. As needed, you can also take photos, record notes, and use AR to compare with design drawings (for as-built checks or staking out) with a single device. LRTK is designed as an all-purpose surveying tool that is intuitive even for users without specialized surveying knowledge. Moreover, equipment costs are kept very low compared to traditional surveying instruments, making it feasible for each operator to have a device. Because LRTK can meet public surveying levels of accuracy, it is a compelling option for control point surveys and as-built management across a wide range of applications. Use cutting-edge tools to realize smarter, more efficient surveying. The surveying field is now at a major turning point because of technological innovation. Under the new standards, adopting high-precision GNSS for smart surveying makes it possible for a single operator to perform advanced surveys in practice. We encourage everyone to actively adopt the latest technologies to improve productivity and safety in surveying work.

FAQ

Q: Is it legally permissible to perform surveys alone? A: Under the Survey Act, performing the work alone is not inherently illegal. However, when producing public survey deliverables, you must follow prescribed procedures and accuracy control standards. Even with GNSS surveying, appropriate observation methods (for example, specified observation durations or multiple repeat observations) and accuracy verification must be conducted to meet the standards. Depending on the situation, it may be better for safety management to assign an assistant.

Q: Does GNSS surveying suffer from weather or environmental effects? A: Satellite positioning is generally less affected by weather, and measurements can usually be taken in rain or cloudy conditions. However, in environments surrounded by obstructions—such as forests or areas with tall buildings—satellite signals may be difficult to receive and accuracy can degrade. Also, during extreme events like typhoons or strong solar flares (geomagnetic storms), positioning can become temporarily unstable.

Q: What preparations and equipment are needed for high-precision GNSS positioning? A: The basics are an RTK-capable GNSS receiver and a means to obtain base station information. Even if you only have a rover, using network RTK allows you to receive national or private reference station data via cellular communications. By setting the coordinate system for the observation area (such as the plane rectangular coordinate zone number) and the appropriate geoid model in advance, you can align obtained positioning results with the public surveying coordinate system. Also consider preparing backup power and ensuring communication coverage in mountainous areas.

Q: Should I use GNSS surveying or total station surveying? A: It’s best to choose according to site conditions. GNSS surveying is advantageous for open areas where it can efficiently cover wide regions, but it cannot be used in environments where satellite signals cannot reach, such as inside forests, tunnels, or indoors. On the other hand, a total station (TS) can provide high-precision, stable measurements as long as line-of-sight is maintained. Typically, GNSS is used for wide-area control and as-built checks, while details and difficult points are supplemented with TS or leveling. Using both methods to leverage their strengths achieves both efficiency and accuracy.

Q: What is LRTK? A: LRTK is a new surveying system that uses a smartphone together with a pocket-sized GNSS receiver and a dedicated app. The receiver attached to the smartphone captures satellite signals and performs real-time high-precision positioning. Data can be managed on the smartphone, uploaded to the cloud for sharing, and tagged to photos for records, among other features. It is easy to use without specialized training and is a powerful tool to support single-operator surveying.