AGS SPIA is a specialized software application for managing, processing, visualizing, and reporting geotechnical and geoenvironmental data.

Core Concept of AGS SPIA

AGS SPIA is built around the AGS Data Format, which is a globally recognized digital standard for transferring geotechnical and geoenvironmental data. Unlike software that creates proprietary file formats, SPIA’s entire workflow is centered on this open, non-proprietary standard, ensuring data interoperability between different stakeholders (e.g., site investigators, consultants, contractors, and clients).

The software’s primary function is to take raw data from field investigations and laboratory tests, often delivered in AGS format, and provide powerful tools to validate, interpret, visualize, and report on that data.

Key Features and Capabilities in v2025.1

While specific new features in 2025.1 would be detailed in its official release notes, the core capabilities of SPIA have been consistently enhanced over the years. Here are the standout features you would expect in this version:

1. AGS Data Management & Validation

  • Data Validation Engine: This is a core strength. SPIA rigorously checks incoming AGS files against the official AGS data validation rules. It flags errors (which break the schema) and warnings (potential data issues), ensuring data quality and integrity from the start.

  • Data Merging and Comparison: Combine multiple AGS files from different phases or contractors into a single, unified project database. Compare different versions of data to track changes.

  • Data Editing and Correction: Allows users to correct errors identified during validation directly within the software and re-export a clean, compliant AGS file.

2. Powerful Visualization & Interpretation

  • Interactive Logging: Create highly customizable borehole logs, cone penetration test (CPT) logs, and window sample logs. The templates are flexible, allowing users to meet company or client-specific standards.

  • Cross-Section Builder: Generate 2D cross-sections by correlating between boreholes. It typically includes tools for interpreting stratigraphy between data points.

  • 3D Model Viewer: A key modern feature. Visualize the entire site investigation in 3D, showing borehole locations, drill paths, and modeled geological surfaces. This helps in understanding subsurface geometry intuitively.

3. Analysis & Reporting

  • Graphing and Contouring: Create a wide variety of graphs (e.g., particle size distribution, stress-strength, e-log-p) and contour maps (e.g., groundwater levels, layer thickness, contamination).

  • Parameter Analysis: Perform statistical analysis on soil parameters and assign design values based on the data.

  • Report Generation: Quickly generate standardized reports, such as borehole location plans, laboratory test summaries, and data validation reports.

4. Integration and Interoperability

  • BIM & Digital Twin Ready: A major focus for modern versions. SPIA can export data and models to formats like IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) for integration into BIM (Building Information Modeling) platforms like Autodesk Revit and Bentley OpenRoads.

  • GIS Linkage: Seamlessly exchange data with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) like ArcGIS and QGIS, allowing geological data to be viewed in a broader spatial context.

  • Direct Links to Other Software: Often includes direct export capabilities to geotechnical design software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, Wallap) and geological modelling packages (like Leapfrog Works).

AGS SPIA v2025.1
AGS SPIA v2025.1