FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Geomatics and Surveying?
- What is the relationship between Geomatics and Surveying?
- What are affiliate organizations and why join them?
- Is Mapping part of Surveying?
- I just completed my Qualification recently and I am struggling to find a job. Perhaps I'm looking at the wrong places, I barely see posts that need Geomaticians. What do I have to look for when job hunting?
1. WHAT IS GEOMATICS AND SURVEYING?
WHAT IS GEOMATICS?
It is the science of collecting, analysing, and interpreting data relating to the earth's surface (spatial data).
WHAT IS SURVEYING?
Surveying is the process of determining the relative position of natural and manmade features on or under the earth’s surface.
The information is then presented either graphically in the form of plans or numerically in the form of tables.
Surveying also includes the setting out of measurements on the earth’s surface.
2. What is the relationship between Geomatics and Surveying?
Geomatics is the whole discipline of gathering, storing, processing, and delivering geographic information or spatially referenced information therefore Surveying is a branch under Geomatics. A branch that deals with the determination of relative position on and beneath the earth's surface with the end product being a map, a plan, a diagram and/or tables.
3. What are Affiliate organizations and why join them?
Affiliate organizations are networks of students and professionals who work together to facilitate field related projects and initiatives.
These organizations or communities help you to grow and interact with other students and professionals in your field of study. They will also help you appreciate your profession more.
Below are some of the Survey Boards in Zimbabwe:
- ZIMBABWE INSTITUTE OF GEOMATICS
click here to register as a graduate
click here to register as a student
- SURVEY INSTITUTE OF ZIMBABWE
- ZIMBABWE LAND SURVEYORS HUB
4. Is Mapping part of Surveying?
Yes, Mapping is part of Surveying. There are several branches of surveying which includes Cartography and Geographic Information Systems. Cartography is the science of map making and GIS is a computer system that analyzes and displays geographically referenced information.
5. I just completed my Qualification recently and I am struggling to find a job. Perhaps I'm looking at the wrong places, I barely see posts that need Geomaticians. What do I have to look for when job hunting?
Job hunting can be draining and difficult especially after graduating. Firstly you have to know where your degree apply and with a Geomatics degree you can venture into land use, engineering technology, spatial planning, natural resources, consulting, and software development.
Land use encompasses land surveying and environmental design. Engineering consists of construction both roads and infrastructure. Under natural resources we are now talking of applying Geomatics in the mining of minerals. Software development is also part and parcel as I believe there is programming in Geomatics. There is Geographic Information systems, GIS.
Therefore you have to apply in mines, construction companies, city councils, private surveying companies and etc.
But for now the greatest advice is that, you should not lose hope. After graduating we often look forward to getting a job with no difficulties, but things are a bit different in the outside world. The reason being vacancies which come with a specific years of experience which we won't be having and lack of connections.
Sometimes instead of applying for the job especially when our years of experience are not enough, apply as a volunteer. This helps you establish connections and boost your years of experience. It also helps you increase your knowledge of Geomatics. Lastly, apply everywhere not just in your region but outside as well.
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