Experts weigh in on the benefits and risks of integrating artificial intelligence in the UK’s geospatial mapping industry, projected to be worth £6.8 billion by 2027. Government regulations, industry perspectives, and technological innovations shape the sector’s future prospects for enhanced efficiency and precision.
AI’s Role in the UK’s Geospatial Mapping Sector
May 17, 2024 – The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the UK’s geospatial mapping industry is under scrutiny, with experts weighing in on its potential benefits and risks. The industry, estimated to be worth £6.8 billion by 2027, is navigating the complexities of AI adoption.
Government Stance and Investment
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden highlighted the need for AI regulation at the UN General Assembly, stressing the importance of oversight in this rapidly advancing field. Meanwhile, the UK’s Geospatial Commission has laid out its “UK Geospatial Strategy 2030,” aiming for the UK to remain a science superpower through significant research funding of £20 billion annually by 2024-2025.
Industry Perspectives
James Kavanagh, head of land & resources at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), views AI as a labor-saving tool, particularly for tasks involving geospatial data capture and post-processing. This sentiment is echoed by Esri UK, which predicts machine learning will be the next significant advancement, already seeing adoption among one in five FTSE 100 companies.
Technological Innovations
FARO Technologies has introduced the FARO® Orbis™ Mobile Laser Scanner and the Focus Premium Laser Scanner. These tools enhance mapping capabilities, offering features like fast scanning and hybrid reality capture. The Orbis scanner uses SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) to create detailed point cloud maps, while the Focus Premium includes embedded GPS for geospatial applications.
Future Prospects
As AI technologies evolve, the UK’s geospatial mapping sector stands to benefit from increased efficiency and precision, provided that regulatory measures balance innovation with safety.
Contact Information
Amanda Hidalgo
Office of Corporate Communications, FARO Technologies
Tel: +1 407 212 7885
Email: [email protected]
