Inside ComNav’s vision for a smarter and more integrated surveying world

We recently had the privilege to sit down with Prudence Xu, regional sales director at ComNav Technology, to hear more about his company’s vision on the evolving geospatial landscape. In this conversation, he reflects on how AI, autonomy and sensor integration are reshaping the way data is collected and processed, while also highlighting the importance of standards, innovation and professional growth within the global surveying community.

How would you describe your current product portfolio? And which product or solution are you particularly proud of?

The ComNav Technology product portfolio is built around a complete ecosystem rather than standalone instruments. We develop both hardware and software, combining our proprietary GNSS algorithms and modules into integrated solutions for a wide range of industries. We offer high-precision RTK GNSS receivers for land surveying, for example, while also providing tailored system solutions for machine guidance, mining and agricultural applications. One product I’m especially proud of is our Venus Laser RTK GNSS receiver, which we launched in 2022. It was the first of its kind and represented a major innovation in GNSS technology. By integrating a laser measurement module with RTK, it broke through the limitations of traditional pole-based RTK surveys, enabling users to safely and accurately measure points in hard-to-reach or hazardous environments.

Which major trends and technologies do you foresee in the geospatial industry in the next few years?

Artificial intelligence will undoubtedly be one of the defining trends. It is already transforming many industries, and its influence in the geospatial field will continue to grow. AI can support real-time data processing, automate quality control, detect and correct errors, and even assist with equipment maintenance. Another clear trend is the integration of multiple sensors into a single device. Products now often combine GNSS, inertial measurement units (IMUs), laser technology, Lidar and cameras, allowing users to work more efficiently with multifunctional systems. Last but not least, autonomy is gaining importance. Robots and robotic platforms – such as robotic dogs or uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) – can perform surveys in difficult or dangerous areas, reducing the need for human operators on site.

What are your expectations for AI in the land surveying profession, and how is it shaping your geospatial solutions?

AI will make data processing more intelligent, efficient and real-time. Currently, most processing still takes place afterwards, but AI will enable on-the-fly analysis and automatic data quality checks. For ComNav, AI will also play a role in algorithm development and R&D, helping us to optimize performance and develop new technologies more quickly. It won’t replace people, but it will be a powerful tool for both engineers and end users.

As autonomy takes on a bigger role in data collection and processing, how is your company developing survey solutions that are both autonomous and efficient?

We’re focusing on two main directions: platform hardware and intelligent software. On the hardware side, our GNSS modules and boards are designed for open integration. We provide software development kits (SDKs) and APIs so partners can easily incorporate our technology into robotic, UAV or other autonomous systems. On the software side, we’re working to unify various applications within one platform. For instance, our RTK software is evolving to integrate solutions for different industries such as marine surveying and GIS. Ultimately, our goal is to make survey operations highly user friendly, so that tasks that used to require expert knowledge can be performed with just a few clicks.

Data standards and interoperability are ongoing concerns. How do you make sure your instruments fit seamlessly within wider geospatial workflows?

We strictly adhere to international standards, including National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) data formats and protocols from the Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM). ComNav is an active member of the RTCM, which helps us stay aligned with the latest global developments. Moreover, we collaborate closely with many partners to ensure seamless integration of our products and solutions. Through joint development and testing, we make sure that our equipment meets international requirements and fits smoothly into existing workflows.

How can manufacturers such as ComNav Technology play a role in promoting best-practice survey principles, rather than just pushing equipment sales?

We definitely see our responsibility as going beyond product sales. We actively contribute to advancing technologies such as the BeiDou system, sharing knowledge about its performance and benefits with users worldwide. BeiDou is not only for China – it’s for everyone. We also invest in spreading awareness of new technologies, such as laser-integrated GNSS receivers, which open up possibilities where traditional survey methods are limited. Our aim is to empower users to explore these innovations and apply them in new, practical ways.

At GIM International, we believe it’s vital to inspire and support the next generation of geospatial professionals. What message do you have for the surveyors of the future?

This is a great time to be in the surveying profession! We’re witnessing an exciting wave of innovation, with new technologies emerging faster than ever before. Many of these breakthroughs are redefining what is possible in measurement and mapping. So my message to young professionals is: be open to new technologies and don’t be afraid to experiment. Innovation only becomes meaningful when people are willing to test it, learn from it and apply it in the real world. The progress of our industry depends on this collaboration between manufacturers and users – working together to push the boundaries of what geospatial technology can achieve.

About Prudence Xu

Prudence Xu is one of the leading figures at ComNav Technology, where he is responsible for formulating sales strategies, expanding market presence, managing regional sales teams across key territories, and building strong relationships with customers worldwide. During his time at ComNav Technology, he has successfully established partnerships with distributors in previously undeveloped markets and played a key role in attracting and supporting new clients.