Dissertations and Theses @ UNI
Availability
Open Access Thesis
Keywords
Optical radar--Iowa--Data processing; Topographical surveying--Iowa; Academic theses;
Abstract
A combined quantitative and qualitative study was done to assess use and adoption of State of Iowa obtained lidar data by Iowa mapping professionals. A 47- question online survey had 106 respondents from throughout Iowa and neighboring states. Eleven follow-up interviews assessed adoption successes, challenges and attitudes toward the Iowa Lidar project. The data were analyzed using the theory of adoption of innovations as a theoretical framework. Results from the online survey indicate lidar is being adopted most quickly in the government sector, but private and academic users are readily adopting as need arises. Linear regression produced a model of 15 variables that explained 36.2% of the variability (þÿ±=0.15). The qualitative portion determined users are adapting many software and analysis tools to use the data to solve many types of land characterization and analysis problems. In general, larger organizations with more expertise, resources and opportunities to use it have been more successful in using lidar data. The few hurdles that were described were concerns over accuracy and limitations of file size and download times. The Iowa lidar data is being adopted with little examination of benefits or obstacles. It appears that many logistical obstacles have been overcome by users and the Iowa lidar data set is becoming a Type 1 innovation. The successful Iowa program can serve as a model for other states or organizations that are considering engaging in similar data acquisition programs.
Year of Submission
2011
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Department of Geography
First Advisor
Ramanathan Sugumaran
Second Advisor
Thomas Fogarty
Third Advisor
Mark Ecker
Date Original
2011
Object Description
1 PDF file (125 leaves)
Copyright
©2011 William G. Burkett
Language
en
File Format
application/pdf
Recommended Citation
Burkett, William G., "A Survey of Lidar Use by Iowa Professionals" (2011). Dissertations and Theses @ UNI. 2262.
https://scholarworks.uni.edu/etd/2262
Comments
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