GIS5050 Module 3: ArcGIS Field Maps & Projections

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Module 3 focused on two topics: ArcGIS Field Maps and Projections.

For the first half of the lab, it required individuals to go out and collect data. It truly gave me a small sliver into what the inspection teams at work have to go through when they go out into the field. Being able to go out for once--I ended up choosing to "inspect" Cascades Park's amenities--and actually use the Field Maps app instead of having to troubleshoot what's going wrong with the device or the app itself was a nice change of pace. Although, speaking of troubleshooting, I did have a few occasions where the app would not keep my data point or photos if I didn't submit the point and instead turned the display on my phone off. It was when I had found trash in the main water fountain that I had went to recycle the cans and wash my hands in the middle of recording data. I learned the hard way to not expect the app to retain that submission window when turning my screen back on. Simply submit your data and you can edit it later, if anything.

The second half of the lab was based around projections. The 3 main projections we worked with were Albers, UTM 16 N, and State Plane North. I was already familiar with Albers and State Plane North, so seeing UTM 16 N was a treat to notice the differences. I've worked with the TIGER counties before and I have never had to calculate and compare the counties area from one projection to another. So, seeing those amount differences did open my eyes on how important it is to know what coordinate systems to be working in, especially for what purposes you need to achieve. If you need to do COGO in Escambia County, it's best to use State Plane North. If I want to collect data points in wetland areas in Escambia, Alachua, Miami-Dade, and Polk counties, then I'd want to stick with Albers since it has a uniform representation throughout the entire state of Florida.

Screenshot of Florida in 3 different projections: Albers, UTM 16 N, State Plane N. Selected Counties -- Alachua, Escambia, Miami-Dade, and Polk -- are colored and their areas calculated to show the differences between them.

The map above shows the work and calculations done during the lab. I had fun trying to think of an eye-catching title as well as using background settings that I normally never get to use during work, such as shadows. I've never had to compare 3 different Florida views either, so cramming it all in one was new to me. Normally, I've only been asked to create a single map at a time. Getting creative with the other elements' placement was fun as well. It was nice to flex some creative liberties for once.

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