Geotechnical Engineering
Office and Site applications
What We Offer
Overview
QGIS is a powerful, open-source GIS platform that enables geotechnical engineers to bring together, visualise and analyse spatial data quickly and efficiently. It supports a wide range of tasks across desk studies, ground investigation planning, interpretation, and reporting — all without licensing restrictions.
This training programme provides a practical, workflow-focused introduction to QGIS, covering core mapping skills, AGS data handling, terrain and surface modelling, spatial analysis, CAD/GIS integration, and mobile data collection through QField.
Participants learn how to manage and combine key datasets (Envirocheck, BGS, historical maps, LiDAR/DEM surfaces, AGS logs, CAD drawings) and how to produce clear, consistent figures for reports.
The course also includes an introduction to Inkscape for refining QGIS outputs where publication-ready graphics or detailed customisation is required.
Training is modular and can be adapted to different experience levels while keeping a strong focus on geotechnical engineering workflows.
Simplified Course Summary
Level 1 provides the core QGIS skills needed for everyday geotechnical work, including bringing in common datasets, georeferencing site plans, creating basic site features, and producing simple, clear figures.
It’s designed as a practical introduction for engineers and graduates who are new to GIS.
Level 2 builds on the basics with applied geotechnical workflows such as AGS data visualisation, terrain and surface modelling, spatial analysis, CAD ↔ GIS integration, mobile data capture using QField, and refined report-figure production.
It enables teams to use QGIS as a practical engineering tool from desk study through reporting.
Level 1 - Core QGIS Skills for Geotechnical Engineering
A practical introduction designed to give engineers and graduates the essential tools needed to work confidently with spatial data in QGIS.
Participants learn how to:
Navigate QGIS and manage key datasets used in desk studies and GI planning
Bring in typical geotechnical datasets: CSV borehole tables, Envirocheck, BGS layers, historical maps
Georeference site plans, maps and drawings
Draw and edit simple site features (GI locations, boundaries, constraints)
Style and label data clearly for interpretation
Produce clean, simple figures suitable for reporting
Outcome:
Participants develop the foundational skills needed to review, organise and present geospatial information for everyday geotechnical work.
Level 2 - Applied QGIS for Geotechnical Analysis & Reporting
A workflow-focused expansion aimed at engineers who want to use QGIS as a practical tool for analysis, interpretation as well as CAD and GI integration.
Participants learn how to:
Prepare, clean and visualise AGS/HoleBASE/OpenGround/gINT data
Combine ground investigation data with geological and environmental datasets
Work with DTMs/DSMs and generate terrain analyses (slope, contouring, elevation, hillshade)
Produce simple surface models and cross-sections
Carry out spatial analysis such as interpolation, access-route assessment and basic volume estimation
Integrate CAD drawings with GIS (import, clean, align, convert)
Produce structured, professional map layouts for reports
Package projects for team use and basic workflow automation
Refine figures using Inkscape when higher-quality or publication-ready output is required
Outcome:
Participants gain a practical, geotechnical workflow toolkit — from handling AGS data to generating figures, terrain analysis and CAD-integrated outputs.
Important Details
Format
Training is delivered in person for individuals or small teams, combining demonstration, guided exercises and discussion.Software
All tools used (QGIS, QField, Inkscape) are free and open-source. Installation guidance is provided ahead of the course.Experience Level
No GIS background is required for Level 1. Level 2 assumes familiarity with the basics or equivalent experience.Data Used
Sessions make use of realistic geotechnical datasets including borehole locations, AGS exports, terrain models and CAD/GIS layers.
Clients may also supply their own site data if they prefer.Tailored Elements
Short, project-style case studies can be added on request (e.g. environmental mapping, slope screening, geological interpretation).Duration
Most teams complete Levels 1 and 2 over two to three days, depending on pace and selected content.Equipment
A laptop with QGIS installed is required. A mouse is strongly recommended; dual screens are helpful but optional.Location
Training can be delivered at your office or another suitable workspace.Post-Training
Participants receive a brief summary of key concepts and recommended resources for continued learning.Contact Us
If you would like to discuss the training in more detail or book a session, please get in touch.
With our cutting-edge drone services, we are now able to offer high-resolution aerial imagery, LiDAR, and inspections of difficult-to-reach areas. Our drones streamline data collection, reduce operational costs, and enhance safety by accessing challenging locations with ease.
Please reach out and contact us.
