For the last few decades, Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) has elevated the architecture, engineering,  and construction (AEC) industries in accuracy and quality by promoting greater knowledge and care of underground assets. In fact, a Penn State University study revealed that every dollar spent investing in the SUE process brings a return of $22.21.

While SUE as a discipline has propelled the industry forward, the terminology – subsurface utility “engineering” – has caused confusion and division among engineers, surveyors, geophysicists, designers, and owners involved in the planning phases of development projects.

The leadership team at DGT Associates, an SUE-capable surveying and engineering firm, believes that Subsurface Utility Mapping (SUM) is a more accurate term, and one that better recognizes the importance of what highly trained, professional mapping specialists do to set a strong foundation for projects involving below-ground work.

To read more about our vision for SUE/SUM, pick up a copy of the July/August issue of The American Surveyor.