Have you ever wondered how much technology actually saves a project? Well, the data is in! Here GeoWing Academy looks at a real world project that was done and compared traditional field data capture methods using pen and paper versus using a cutsomised, project specific QField app design using smart attributes to collect 830 data points. Each point had 15 fields each (some with variables) and also required field photos and GPS points of all field data.
All monetary values in Australian Dollars (AUD)
Have a look at the table and short video below, it will blow your mind!
| Category | QField App (Measured) ⚙️📱 | Traditional (Conservative) ⏱️💻 | Traditional (Pessimistic) 🕐📋 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 830 Data Points 📍 | |||
| Field Capture Time ⏱️ | 51.5 h | 82.8 h | 117.0 h |
| Ready-for-Analysis Time 💻 | 0.19 h | 41.4 h | 59.5 h |
| Total Time ⏱️ | 51.7 h | 124.2 h | 176.5 h |
| Labour Cost ($50/hr) 💰 | $2,585 | $6,210 | $8,825 |
| App Setup Cost ⚙️ | + $431.41 | — | — |
| Total Cost (with setup) 💵 | $3,016.41 | $6,210 | $8,825 |
| Time Saved vs App ⏳ | — | 72.5 h | 124.8 h |
| Net Savings vs App 💲 | — | $3,193.59 | $5,808.59 |
| % Reduction (with setup) 📉 | — | ~51% | ~66% |
| Additional Benefits 🌟 | |||
| Data Validity 📸📍 | Photos + GPS auto-linked, no transcription errors | High error risk from manual typing | Higher error risk with fatigue |
| Training Requirements 🎓 | Minimal (intuitive app, no GIS needed) | High (GPS + camera + Excel/GIS data entry) | Higher chance of mistakes & rework |
| Workflow Integration 🔗 | Auto cloud sync to QGIS, analysis-ready instantly | Manual Excel/GIS typing, photo renaming required | Very slow + prone to backlogs |
