Top Apps for Geoprofessionals
Our phones and the applications on them have become an extension of our toolbox. In today’s fast-paced business landscape, leveraging technology is crucial for optimizing productivity and driving profitability. 
App-makers promise their newest invention will make life easier, save you time, help you remember things, and enable you to accomplish goals and meet deadlines. But which ones are actually up to snuff?
As part of the 2024 GBA Annual Conference, GBA’s Business Practices Committee hosted the ever-popular business round table sessions, where conference attendees discussed 12 important topics relevant to the geoprofessions.
One topic was how leveraging workplace apps can significantly enhance efficiency and productivity. Below is a tried-and-true list of apps used and recommended by working geoprofessional consultants.
Top Apps to Increase Geoprofessional Efficiency and Productivity
• PDF Scanner – Scan documents to PDF with mobile device. There are several other apps that do this as well and were also mentioned: The Notes app on the iPhone or the standard Notes app on Android; Microsoft Lens. More info.
• Power Automate – Microsoft app; low code/no code process controller. You can use the app to create “rules” with Microsoft products. Microsoft “Lists” app also works together with Power Automate to do some great processes for an organization. Power Automate is built to work under SharePoint. More info.
• OneNote – Take notes in a meeting and collaborate with multiple users at once. (This comes as part of Microsoft Office.) More info.
• CompanyCam – Cloud-based app that features a searchable database, photos, and file saving; can also turn photos into PDFs. More info.
• Filio – Data collection app that helps users manage project photos and videos. More info.
• Todoist – Allows capturing and categorization of to-do items; can add projects, estimated time of completion, priority level. More info.
• FieldMove Clino – Allows geological mapping (strike and dip measurements). More info.
• Stereonet Mobile – Designed to help users collect, visualize, and analyze geological orientation data on the go. More info.
• Rockd – Allows users to record geological observations; uses location to provide spatially informed suggestions for nearby geologic units. More info.
• Moasure – Measures distance, topography, and distance between points; has a gyroscope and accelerometer. More info.
• SharePoint – Not just document management; lists that can control metadata and control processes. More info.
• Obsidian – Allows users to store and organize notes on their device to help customize workflow. More info.
Other topics that were discussed at this year’s business round tables included:
• Getting paid quicker (attacking accounts receivable to increase profits)
• Climate resiliency opportunities for geoprofessionals
• Alternatives to ownership to retain great employees.
You can view the notes from each round table discussion, which include key takeaways to share with GBA members, by clicking here.
(Reference to apps or products does not necessarily constitute or imply their endorsement, recommendation, or favor of GBA.)