The 25th anniversary of Geostrata Magazine (December 2024 / January 2025 issue) is celebrated through an excellent focus on construction QA/QC and emerging data management systems. The magazine is available for free consultation online but we thought of sharing summaries of these great articles here to entice the visitors to read this issue back-to-back. These topics are at the heart of our practice at Civil Renewables, so it is safe to say that we practice what we preach and are intensely interested in the topics discussed in this issue. The December 25 / January 2026 issue promises to be even more interesting for us since its focus will be on foundations for supertall structures; we hope wind turbines would qualify as being supertall structures😊. Geostrata Magazine is proudly published every two months by ASCE’s Geo-Institute.

Unlocking the Power of Data in Construction

In this article, Vanessa C. Bateman discusses the importance of data management in construction projects, emphasizing that data-driven decisions improve designs and Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) programs. The article highlights the need for accurate, timely, and well-managed data to support project decisions and reduce costs. It also provides examples of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects that have benefited from effective data management systems.

Managing a Data Deluge in the North

The article, written by Jamey Rosen and Michael Arnold, discusses the Moose Creek Dam Rehabilitation project in Fairbanks, Alaska. The dam, completed in 1980, was rated as high risk in 2014 due to backward erosion and piping. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initiated a project to address these issues by constructing a centerline barrier wall. The project generated a large amount of data, which was managed using a comprehensive Information Management System (IMS) developed by BAUER Foundation Corp. and Geosyntec. The IMS allowed for efficient data collection, visualization, and analysis, ensuring the quality of the construction and providing a well-documented archive for future use. The project involved deep soil mixing techniques and an intensive quality control program to ensure the integrity of the barrier wall.

If You Don’t Measure, Did It Happen?

In this article, Marco D. Boscardin discusses the importance of geotechnical and structural instrumentation monitoring in construction projects, highlighting the need for well-designed Instrumentation and Monitoring (I&M) programs to ensure the safety and integrity of structures during construction, emphasizing the importance of a well-designed I&M program to protect structures, ensure safety, and provide valuable data for construction management. Key points include:

Purpose of I&M: To fulfill regulatory requirements, protect nearby structures, assess responsibility for damage, and monitor sensitive facilities.
Baseline Data: Accurate baseline data is crucial for interpreting construction impacts. The duration of baseline readings should reflect the project's length and environmental conditions.
Manual vs. Automated Monitoring: The choice depends on project duration, accessibility, and cost. Automated systems offer real-time data processing and better control.
Data Collection Frequency: Varies based on construction activities and proximity to monitoring points. Daily readings are often needed for nearby activities.
Data Checking and Reporting: Immediate checking of data for errors is essential. Reports should include raw and processed data, with timely submission to stakeholders.
Action Levels: Setting threshold and limiting values helps manage construction activities and prevent damage. Action plans should be in place for when these levels are reached.

From Boxes to Bytes

In this article, Christopher Merklin and Jesse G. Rauser discuss the evolution of geotechnical data management at state Departments of Transportation (DOTs), focusing on the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD), highlighting the importance of effective data management in geotechnical engineering and the ongoing efforts to improve these practices. Key points include:

Historical Challenges: Both ODOT and LADOTD faced difficulties in managing and accessing vast amounts of geotechnical data stored in hard-copy formats.
Initial Efforts: In the early 2000s, both departments began digitizing documents and developing systems to manage geotechnical data. LADOTD's first official effort started in 2003, while ODOT began researching document management systems around the same time.
Data Management Systems: LADOTD developed a system to access scanned soil boring logs via a web-based map, while ODOT created a web-based GIS enterprise system for geotechnical data.
Challenges and Solutions: Both departments encountered issues with data standardization, compatibility, and the need for consistent data management practices. LADOTD and ODOT worked on standardizing data models and integrating various systems to improve data management.
Modern Systems: LADOTD adopted HoleBase, a precursor to Bentley's OpenGround software, while ODOT used the DIGGS data schema and other tools to streamline data management processes.
Future Directions: Both departments continue to improve their data management practices, incorporating new technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance geotechnical data analysis and modeling.

Transforming CQA Through Digital Innovation

In this article, Xin Peng, and Srinivasa Sid Nadukuru discuss how digital tools and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing Construction Quality Assurance (CQA) processes, emphasizing the importance of embracing digital transformation to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and quality in construction projects. Key points include:

Traditional Challenges: Manual data entry and paper-based documentation are prone to errors, data fragmentation, delayed reporting, and inefficient communication.
Digital Solutions: Modern tools can handle both structured and unstructured data, improving data accuracy and project efficiency. These tools include cloud-based applications, mobile devices for real-time data entry, and AI-driven data analytics.
Centralized Data Management: Centralized systems allow for real-time data entry, automated QA checks, and a unified data repository, reducing errors and enhancing collaboration.
Data Analytics and Visualization: Advanced analytics and visualization tools provide actionable insights, streamline workflows, and improve decision-making.
Challenges and Solutions: Integrating digital tools requires careful planning, stakeholder engagement, training, and system compatibility.

Tracking What You Cannot See

In this article, Joshua T. Zimmermann, Clifton Simmons, and Mila Brown discuss the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a construction database to mitigate subsidence risks from abandoned underground coal mines, emphasizing the importance of using GIS technology to manage and mitigate subsidence risks effectively. Key points include:

Subsidence Risk: Abandoned mines can collapse, forming sinkholes that damage infrastructure. Identifying these risks requires extensive historical data analysis and geotechnical investigations.
GIS Database: A centralized GIS database helps track progress, ensure project specifications are met, and manage budgets. It integrates data from various sources, including borehole logs, mine maps, and field tests.
Case Study: The article describes a GIS system developed by Brierley Associates for subsidence mitigation projects in Wyoming. This system improved drilling efficiency, data visualization, and project management.
Future Applications: Advancements in GIS technology, such as 3D data viewing and integration with CAD and BIM, will further enhance data management and visualization in construction projects.

Installation as Exploration

In this article, Jesús Gómez, Carlos Englert, Aria Fathi, and Brendan Lee, discuss the use of drilling parameters to streamline Quality Control (QC) of displacement auger rigid inclusions and piles, emphasizing the importance of using Measurement While Drilling (MWD) systems for improved quality control and efficient data management in ground improvement projects. Key points include:

Rigid Inclusions: Used for settlement control in structures with poor subsurface conditions. They transfer applied loads through soft soils into deeper layers.
Installation Process: Typically involves a displacement augercast pile system, which minimizes spoils and densifies granular soils.
Measurement While Drilling (MWD): Data collected during installation, such as torque and downforce, helps evaluate soil resistance and the performance of rigid inclusions.
Penetration Resistance Index (PRI): A numerical index to assess soil resistance and compare production rigid inclusions with verification test elements.
Batch Processing: Efficiently processes MWD data for large projects, allowing for rapid assessment of installation quality and consistency.

Sky High Demand

In this article, Surya S. C. Congress and Anand J. Puppala discuss the growing need for a skilled remote sensing workforce in infrastructure asset management, emphasizing the importance of preparing the next generation with the necessary skills to harness the power of remote sensing for infrastructure asset management. Key points include:

Technological Advancements: The use of satellites, drones, and advanced data analytics has revolutionized infrastructure monitoring, providing unprecedented insights into asset conditions.
Educational Gaps: There is a lack of mainstream training and guidance documents on the use of these technologies, necessitating more trained users.
Role of Universities and Colleges: Institutions must evolve their curricula to include remote sensing applications in engineering, offer specialized courses, and involve students in research projects.
Outreach and Engagement: Efforts should target a broader audience, including underrepresented communities, to cultivate future remote sensing experts.
Future Prospects: Embracing remote sensing technologies in STEM fields requires investment in workforce development to unlock their full potential for efficient infrastructure management.

Focus on Construction QA/QC and Data Management