Automated Metadata Cataloging for Mobile Terrestrial Laser Scanning Data Management: Case Study

Abstract

This case study examines two essential aspects of mobile terrestrial laser scanning (MTLS). First, it provides results of an investigation into key data management issues experienced by a fairly large producer/consumer of MTLS data. Second, it documents the requirements, design, and implementation of a software tool for automated metadata cataloging of MTLS data and projects. This tool, known as LidarCrawl, was developed to directly address data management issues encountered in the distribution and reuse of MTLS data. This tool enables a geospatial-enabled web-based portal to view MTLS data availability and improves data discovery and usage for all MTLS user levels. While the current case study focuses on the management of MTLS data for the Department of Transportation, the tool provides a means for automated metadata cataloging for general geospatial data in various domains.