SIngapore's Survey and MappIng

nIrastructure
Strategy

2007 - 2011
Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure Strategy 2007-2011
i
Foreword

A surveyor conducting a survey in the field needs to obtain an acceptable misclosure in
the survey which is obvious to most practising surveyors. But to the uninitiated young
surveyors, a sound advice would be that finding a good control point to start a survey is
having half the battle won. Starting a survey with a poor control point is akin to a chef
using inferior ingredients in his recipe.

Knowing the importance of good control points, the Singapore Land Authority has set its
sight with bearings pointing towards establishing a Survey and Mapping Infrastructure
Strategy Map. A small team of staff headed by Victor Khoo was formed to reinforce
SLAs commitment in establishing and maintaining the survey and mapping infrastructure
in Singapore.

The team was given 6 months to map out a strategic plan that covers the Integrated
Survey Network, Singapore Satellite Positioning Reference Network, Singapore Precise
Levelling Benchmark Network and the Geoid Model. It addresses our long-term planning
based on a coordinated framework. To achieve greater clarity, the team has also
identified tasks required to achieve our goals for the next 5 years. This would set the
directions and priorities for both public sector and private sector in their geospatial
initiatives and activities. This is our inaugural plan and we aim to produce and update the
plan every 5 years to keep up with the technological advancements and paradigm shifts.

In line with our belief that end users should be consulted upon for issues with affect them,
SLA has conducted its first ever e-consultation on this strategic plan. The number of
responses received was not overwhelming; however, it provided us with a good idea on
how we can further improve to serve our customers even better. SLA would like to thank
all respondents who have contributed their suggestions and feedback. The team has
deliberated on all feedback which was received before this strategic plan was finalised.
Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure Strategy 2007-2011
ii
With this, we hope to provide an array of reliable control network for use in cadastral,
engineering, topographical, aerial mapping and GIS applications. This will also keep the
users abreast of the plans SLA has in the pipeline. Looking ahead, we will continually
communicate and work with the stakeholders to draw their input in achieving the desired
outcomes.

Soh Kheng Peng
Chief Surveyor
Singapore
June 2007

Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure Strategy 2007-2011
iii
Executive Summary

This strategic plan focuses on the survey and mapping infrastructure system in
Singapore.

Looking ahead, the main challenges facing the provision of a survey and mapping
infrastructure system in Singapore are: 1) to satisfy the needs of all users without
compromising on the integrity, reliability, accessibility of Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system; 2) staying relevant to changes that are affecting the surveying
profession; 3) having the best people to manage such a system; 4) extending the use of
geospatial information in decision-making, and; 5) ensuring an internationally-recognised
survey and mapping infrastructure system.

To deal with these challenges, strategies have been developed. From these strategies,
which act as a framework for task-setting, we aim to reach the 5 goals that are set out in
this report. Then, our vision: To have a world-class survey and mapping infrastructure
system in Singapore, will be realised.







Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure Strategy 2007-2011
iv
Content

Foreword.......................................................................................................................... i
Executive Summary ........................................................................................................iii
Content .......................................................................................................................... iv
List of Acronyms Used .................................................................................................... v

1 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 1
1.1 The Origin of the Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System in Singapore.............. 2
1.2 The Present.............................................................................................................. 3

2 Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System .......................................... 4
2.1 Survey Services of the SLA...................................................................................... 4
2.2 The ISN and SiReNT................................................................................................ 4
2.3 The Singapore Precise Levelling Benchmark Network and Geoid Model.................. 5
2.4 An Integrated Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System........................................ 6

3 Vision ....................................................................................................................... 7

4 Goals........................................................................................................................ 8

5 Strategies and Work Plans ..................................................................................... 10

Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure Strategy 2007-2011

v
List of Acronyms Used

2D: 2-dimensional
3D: 3-dimensional
3G: 3
rd
generation
HDB: Housing Development Board
ISO: International Standards Organization
JTC: Jurong Town Corporation
MSL: Mean Sea Level
GPS: Global Positioning System
GNSS: Global Navigation Satellite System
NTU: Nanyang Technological University
RTK: Real-Time Kinematic
SIMRSN: Singapore Integrated Multiple Reference Station Network
SMS: Short Message Service
SLA: Singapore Land Authority
SVY21: The cadastral surveying system in Singapore

Introduction
1
1 Introduction

Whats next?

Given the many changes implemented over the past 2 years for the surveying profession
in Singapore, such as the online submission of cadastral survey jobs and the change to a
new surveying system, this question seems unnecessary to many survey professionals.
However, due to new surveying paradigms and developments in the field of GNSS, we
cannot stay oblivious to technological and institutional changes that are affecting the
world, including ourselves. Rather, we must be able to provide a robust, reliable and
integrated surveying system for the geospatial industry. As we return to the survey
fundamentals, A survey cannot be more accurate than the control, this question can be
answered.

Such is the importance of this control that it can be said no authoritative position can be
obtained in Singapore without a nation-wide control network. This nation-wide control
network is a key component of our survey and mapping infrastructure for geospatial data
acquisition purposes. This report focuses on Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system, which consists of all methods, processes and infrastructures
associated with Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure.

A survey and mapping infrastructure system is integral to the geospatial industry in
Singapore. In order to overcome new challenges ahead, there is a need to review
Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system. Ultimately, everyone who has a
stake in positioning in Singapore would be able to reap the benefits of Singapores
survey and mapping infrastructure system for various economic and social activities.

The need to have a survey and mapping infrastructure system is emphasised, but who
should provide such a survey and mapping infrastructure system in Singapore?

Under section 7(a) of the Boundaries and Survey Maps Act (Chapter 25),

The Chief Surveyor shall be responsible for establishing a co-ordinated cadastre and
may, for that purpose
(a) establish and maintain a network of survey control marks with recorded co-
ordinates for use in surveying, mapping and related practice.

Introduction
2
Although the Chief Surveyor is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of a
survey and mapping infrastructure for the direct purpose of cadastral surveying, this
infrastructure is also used for various geospatial applications.

The need and mandate to provide a survey and mapping infrastructure system for
Singapore is stated, which leads to the next logical step of actually providing such a
survey and mapping infrastructure system in Singapore. Or has it been provided already?
To answer this question, let us first understand the historical origin of the survey and
mapping infrastructure in Singapore. Before that, let us distinguish between the vertical
and horizontal (planar) components that shape Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure.

The vertical and horizontal survey control networks are references from which heights
and 2D positions are obtained so that they are meaningful and consistent. This ensures
that data is seamlessly integrated even though they may be acquired from different
sources and eliminates any ambiguity with regards to the reference which measurements
are obtained.

1.1 The Origin of the Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System in Singapore

If we look back at the history of surveying in Singapore, there was an attempt to establish
a local trigonometrical survey in Singapore as early as 1845 by J.T. Thomson. However,
this survey was not completed. On a larger scale, the Trigonometrical Survey of
Singapore commenced in 1890 and proved to be successful in providing an accurate and
coordinated survey control network in Singapore back then.

More recently in 1992, the Survey Department and JTC jointly engaged NTU as
consultants to investigate the feasibility of using GPS technology to modernise and
densify the survey control network in Singapore. From the feasibility study carried out, a
survey primary triangulation network was established using GPS technology. The survey
triangulation network is known as the Integrated Survey Network (ISN). In 1995,
additional control points were added to the ISN. With the completion of the ISN, a new
system, known as the SVY21 system, was established and launched in August 2004
through a gazette.

The Singapore Precise Levelling Benchmark Network was first established in 1958 by
the Survey Department. This vertical control network consists of points, each known as a
Introduction
3
Benchmark, whose height values are known from a reference surface, known as the
MSL. The MSL is determined from tidal observations taken continuously over long
periods. Since the 1958 Precise Levelling Exercise, there had been extensions and
revisions made to this vertical control network.

1.2 The Present

From the above, a survey and mapping infrastructure system exists in Singapore already,
with the survey and mapping infrastructure consisting of the ISN and the Singapore
Precise Levelling Benchmark Network. However, 2 other infrastructures will be
considered in this report: 1) a model which converts GPS heights into heights referenced
from the MSL, known as the Geoid Model, and; 2) a GPS facility, known as Singapore
Satellite Positioning Reference Network (SiReNT). These infrastructures, whether
physical or non-physical, will be the basis of Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system, consisting of: 1) ISN; 2) SiReNT; 3) Singapore Precise Levelling
Benchmark Network, and; 4) Geoid Model.

Thus, a survey and mapping infrastructure system exists in Singapore already. However,
we need to ensure that it will not be obliterated or left in oblivion. To do this, there is a
need to re-think methods and processes associated with Singapores survey and
mapping infrastructure system, so that the relevancy, adequacy and need for such a
survey and mapping infrastructure system can be known and dealt with adequately.

Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure Strategy 2007-2011 is formulated to
address these issues.
Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System
4
2 Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System

2.1 Survey Services of the SLA

The Survey Department of Singapore commenced operation in 1826. In 2001, the
Survey Department, together with the Land Office, Singapore Land Registry and Land
Systems Support Unit, merged to form SLA. In 2004, the Survey Department was
renamed: Survey Services.

Survey Services, SLA is primarily responsible for:
1) a reliable survey and mapping infrastructure system in Singapore;
2) maintaining an optimum standard of cadastral surveys in Singapore, and;
3) providing superior service to our customers in the private and public sectors.

Thus, Survey Services is responsible for the ISN, SiReNT, Singapore Precise Levelling
Benchmark Network and Geoid Model in Singapore.

2.2 The ISN and SiReNT

SiReNT, which was launched in September 2006, evolved from a project which involved
the use of reference stations to improve the accuracy of positions acquired using GPS
technology. SiReNT is physically represented by 5 reference stations strategically
located throughout the island and provides many new opportunities to users for various
geospatial applications.

The ISN consists of approximately 70 primary control points, mostly on top of HDB flats,
and about 5000 secondary control points, all on ground, with coordinates in the SVY21
system. The ISN makes it possible for surveys to be connected to Singapores national
survey and mapping infrastructure so all positions can be represented in a single
consistent system.

Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System
5


2.3 The Singapore Precise Levelling Benchmark Network and Geoid Model

The Geoid Model is required for converting heights obtained using GPS into the local
height reference frame. Presently, Survey Services is coming up with the Geoid Model
for Singapore. This involves the use of benchmarks in the Singapore Precise Levelling
Benchmark Network and new Benchmarks being established, known as Fundamental
Benchmarks, to create the Geoid Model. Presently, there are about 500 Benchmarks and
slightly over 10 Fundamental Benchmarks in Singapore.


Fig 2.1: Photos of Secondary Control Markers
New Fundamental Benchmark Old Benchmark
Fig 2.2: Photos of Benchmarks
Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System
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2.4 An Integrated Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System

Although it has been said that Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure consists of
the horizontal and vertical component, both are very much integrated, not least due to
the implementation of SVY21. With SVY21 and the Geoid Model, it is possible to convert
a GPS position into a format which the user needs: 1) coordinates under the SVY21
system, and 2) height in the local height reference frame.

The term GPS appears so many times that one might ask: Can we do without GPS in
our survey and mapping infrastructure system?

The answer is Yes

While the ISN is the physical realisation of the SVY21 system, the Singapore Precise
Levelling Benchmark Network is the physical realisation of the Geoid Model. This means
that 2D positions and heights can be obtained from these physical infrastructures without
using GPS. Although this is not the envisaged scenario, these plans are in place for a
robust and reliable survey and mapping infrastructure system that is able to deal with
changing practical circumstances, including different methods of ascertaining a position.


GPS

SiReNT

2D position with
height

ISN
Singapore
Precise
Levelling
Benchmark
Network

SVY 21
parameters
+
Geoid
Model

3D position
For establishing Geoid Model
+
+
For establishing ISN markers
Fig 2.3: Integrating Singapores Survey and Mapping Infrastructure System
with GPS positioning
Vision
7
3 Vision






As a world-class survey and mapping infrastructure system is paramount to fulfilling the
land information needs of a world-class land authority, our vision for Singapores survey
and mapping infrastructure system is aligned with SLAs vision: To be a world-class land
authority. Thus, there is mutual support and recognition between the envisaged position
of SLA and the need for a world-class survey and mapping infrastructure system.

For the survey and mapping infrastructure system in Singapore to reach world-class
standards, it must be reliable, accessible and consistent with international best-practices.
As the survey and mapping infrastructure system in Singapore exists to support
Singapores economy, security and development, it must be best-suited to the needs of
the geospatial industry in Singapore.
To have a world-class survey and mapping
infrastructure system in Singapore
Goals
8
4 Goals

To realise our vision of having a world-class survey and mapping infrastructure system in
Singapore, the following 5 goals are set.

4.1 Data

Goal 1




The first principle of providing geospatial data at a national level is: The user is able to
obtain the geospatial data he needs easily and uses it for his purpose with confidence.
Confidence comes from a reliable, accurate, updated and authoritative survey and
mapping infrastructure system with known strengths and limitations. We aim to create a
self-sustainable survey and mapping infrastructure system from the sale of geospatial
data. However, the cost of acquiring geospatial data must not act as a deterrent towards
the usage of geospatial information for the greater good of Singapores economy,
security and development.

4.2 Technology

Goal 2



We aim to make use of relevant leading-edge technologies in the field of GNSS and
wireless communication to create the most effective solution for the management of
Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system so as to meet and exceed users
expectations.

To provide a reliable, accurate, updated, authoritative and easily
accessible survey and mapping infrastructure system with
instantaneous 3D positioning capabilities at an affordable cost to the
user and provider
To harness leading-edge technologies in geospatial data acquisition,
management, analysis and visualisation for a relevant survey and
mapping infrastructure system
Goals
9
4.3 People

Goal 3



We aim to increase the capacity of SLAs Survey Services through a more varied work
scope. Therefore, officers maintaining Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure
system must be competent and skilled enough to deal with the changing needs of all
stakeholders.

4.4 Usage

Goal 4




We aim to extend the usage of Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system to
include the maximum number of users. However, a pre-requisite for the above to be met
is the recognition of using geospatial information to achieve the users objective.
Therefore, there has to be an increase in awareness of geospatial information usage in
Singapore followed by educating the user on his specific needs. Thus, our policies shall
focus on geospatial information demanded by both public and private sectors.

4.5 Connectivity

Goal 5



The use of global systems for geospatial data acquisition, such as GPS, and data usage
on a global scale does not allow Singapore to be isolated from the world. Rather,
international best-practices, such as ISO standards, for geospatial information handling
shall be used as the guide for Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system so
as to allow geospatial information across different platforms to be integrated seamlessly.
To continue to have capable human resources managing
Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system
The public/private domain is aware of Singapores survey and
mapping infrastructure system and will be using such geospatial
information for their various needs
Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system is connected to the
world and consistent with international standards
Strategies and Work Plans
10
5 Strategies and Work Plans

Strategies were formulated to provide an overall framework for setting work plans to
reach the goals that were stated earlier. Through these strategies, the best responses to
the changing needs of the geospatial industry will be provided.

The strategies that are recommended target a specific goal and are grouped as follows:

Strategies Goal targeted
1 to 7 1
8 to 10 2
11 to 12 3
13 to 16 4
17 to 18 5










Strategies and Work Plans
11





Strategy 1
Ensuring the reliability of Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system

Proposed work plan
1 To conduct a feasibility study on the use of a gravity survey for Singapore
2 To review existing procedures on the maintenance of Singapores survey and
mapping infrastructure
3 To re-adjust the Singapore Precise Levelling Benchmark Network


Strategy 2
Continuing to integrate cadastral surveys with Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system

Proposed work plan
4 To conduct a feasibility study on the use of RTK for cadastral surveying


Strategy 3
Regular review of policies regarding Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure
system

Proposed work plan
5 To establish an understanding with stakeholders who are involved in the
protection and maintenance of Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure
6 To raise public awareness on Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure
7 To review existing policies on the establishment of ISN markers


Goal 1: To provide a reliable, accurate, updated, authoritative and
easily accessible survey and mapping infrastructure system with
instantaneous 3-D positioning capabilities at an affordable cost to
the user and provider

Strategies and Work Plans
12
Strategy 4
Enhancing users accessibility to data

Proposed work plan
8 To review existing data policies for Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system


Strategy 5
Legalising Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system as the official source of
information for all survey and mapping activities

Proposed work plan
9 To review the Boundary and Survey Maps Act (Chapter 25) and related
Rules


Strategy 6
Pegging prices to customer needs

Proposed work plan
10 To create a price list of products from Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure


Strategy 7
Providing online processing capabilities in Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system

Proposed work plan
11 To carry out a market-demand study
12 To carry out a feasibility study





Strategies and Work Plans
13




Strategy 8
Utilising leading-edge technologies for GPS reference stations

Proposed work plan
13 To move from SIMRSN to SiReNT


Strategy 9
Carrying out pilot projects using new technology

Proposed work plan
14 To use SMS technology for the dissemination of information on ISN markers
15 To use 3G wireless technology for the collection and dissemination of
information on Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure


Strategy 10
Initiating research projects with the academia for testing and development

Proposed work plan
16 To establish an understanding with educational institutes on research
initiatives


Goal 2: To harness leading-edge technologies in
geospatial data acquisition, management, analysis
and visualisation for a relevant survey and mapping
infrastructure system

Strategies and Work Plans
14




Strategy 11
Providing training and retraining for officers managing Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system

Proposed work plan
17 To organise education courses with educational institutes
18 To organise internationally-recognised survey conferences in Singapore


Strategy 12
Sending our officers to seminars for networking and knowledge sharing

Proposed work plan
19. To send officers for courses conducted by the private sector
20 To identify seminars and conferences for officers to attend





Goal 3: To continue to have capable human
resources managing Singapores survey and
mapping infrastructure system

Strategies and Work Plans

15




Strategy 13
Providing guidelines on the use of Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system
for surveyors and non-surveyors

Proposed work plan
21 To review existing and create new guidelines on the use of Singapores
survey and mapping infrastructure system for surveyors
22 To provide information on the use of SiReNT for non-surveyors and
surveyors in the SiReNT website
23 To provide guidelines on the use of the Geoid Model


Strategy 14
Educating the public and promoting Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure
system

Proposed work plan
24 To provide a list of terms on Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure
system
25 To publish a quarterly newsletter with the latest news on Singapores survey
and mapping infrastructure system
26 To disseminate information on the development of Singapores survey and
mapping infrastructure system in the SLA website


Strategy 15
Understanding the needs of our customers

Proposed work plan
27 To review information contained in the ISN datasheets
28 To conduct customer surveys regularly



Goal 4: The public/private domain is aware of Singapores
survey and mapping infrastructure system and will be using
such geospatial information for their various needs

Strategies and Work Plans

16

Strategy 16
Actively engaging users to realise advantages provided by Singapores survey and
mapping infrastructure system

Proposed work plan
29 To collaborate with the private sector in creating more applications for
Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure system
30 To increase the extent through which Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system can be used by various industries
Strategies and Work Plans

17





Strategy 17
Adopting an internationally-recognised survey and mapping control framework

Proposed work plan
31 To constantly monitor SiReNT reference stations


Strategy 18
Adopting internationally-recognised data standards

Proposed work plan
32 To create the metadata for Singapores survey and mapping infrastructure
system

Goal 5: Singapores survey and mapping
infrastructure system is connected to the world
and consistent with international standards