Before GPS & GIS utility mapping services begin, the mapping team typically needs the property address, project boundaries, site plans, construction drawings, survey information, and details about the utilities or infrastructure that need to be documented. Existing utility records, as-built drawings, previous surveys, and GIS data can also provide valuable reference information.

The project area should provide reasonable access for GPS surveying and utility locating equipment, with sufficient visibility or access to the features being mapped. Depending on the project, professionals may need access to utility access points, manholes, valves, utility markers, electrical equipment, communication infrastructure, and other identifiable site features to collect accurate field data.

Professional mapping teams may combine GPS surveying, GIS technology, electromagnetic utility locating, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), field measurements, and other detection methods depending on project requirements. Collected information can be georeferenced, organized into digital GIS layers, and documented with utility attributes and location data. The final deliverable may include digital utility maps, GIS data, field coordinates, site drawings, or other mapping formats specified for the project.