Cooperation between Swedesurvey and Hebei Bureau of Surveying and Mapping in China has been further strengthened by a successful three-week course held in Sweden during October and November 2011. During the course, “Building Digital Terrain Models”, the nine participants studied different methods of collecting and storing as well as the distribution and usage of three dimensional spatial data. One of the main aims was to gain inspiration and ideas to implement throughout Hebei Province where it is planned to produce this type of data.
Activities included not only formal lectures at both Lantmäteriet and the University of Gävle but also on-the-job training, presentations of products derived from the new Swedish National Elevation Model and study visits to private companies where the information is used for construction , planning and surveying purposes. Access to the information and how it is used by local authorities was demonstrated during a study visit to the Municipality of Gävle.
For the majority of those taking part in the course, this was their first visit abroad and the time that was set aside for sightseeing and social activities was also much appreciated, particularly visits to the homes of Swedesurvey staff and the farewell dinner which was held together with the Elks of Gävle.