#Japan #Shibuya #Dynamic Map #Nihonkai Survey #Surveying Network

Dynamic Map Platform Enhances Surveying Capabilities by Acquiring Nihonkai Survey Design

Dynamic Map Platform, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, announced the acquisition of Nihonkai Survey Design, located in Takaoka, Toyama. This strategic move is designed to bolster the company’s surveying operations and to establish a comprehensive surveying network critical to enhancing digital infrastructure across Japan. In conjunction with this acquisition, Dynamic Map Platform introduced a new subsidiary, Dynamic Map Platform Consultants, which will oversee surveying activities moving forward.

Background of the Acquisition

As the need for diverse data generation and digital infrastructure development grows, the expansion of surveying technologies and the establishment of rapid, flexible surveying systems become crucial. Since its founding in 2016, Dynamic Map Platform has focused on delivering high-precision 3D data primarily for public roads. However, the recent diversification of data-generating areas, which now includes airports, ports, logistics centers, and private enterprises, necessitates an enhanced surveying approach. The realization of the company’s vision, “Modeling the Earth,” requires a broader scope of data collection and the assurance of effective surveying techniques.

Accordingly, securing alternative measurement methods such as drones and handheld scanners, along with the application of cutting-edge technologies, is imperative. This established need drives the importance of having significant in-house surveying capabilities alongside existing partnerships.

Challenges in the Surveying Industry

Japan faces several pressing issues related to aging infrastructure and natural disaster response capabilities. The country’s social capital stock, significantly built during the high-growth economic period, is facing rapid deterioration. Additionally, the recent spike in natural disasters adds to the societal challenges posed by aging infrastructure. The surveying profession, involving licensed surveyors and surveying technicians, plays a pivotal role in identifying precise land positions and conditions for construction projects, contributing to efficient map and design plan creation. Moreover, surveyors are first responders in the aftermath of seismic and flooding events, collecting critical information to inform recovery strategies.

However, the surveying industry grapples with three major challenges:
1. Industry Restructuring: The contracting market has seen fluctuations with public works contracts showing a modest increase, while the number of registered surveying businesses has diminished significantly since 2003, leading to a concentration of small firms with limited capital.
2. Surveyor Training: The declining number of licensed surveyors, particularly among younger professionals, leads to an aging workforce that may not be able to meet future demands as more surveyors retire without adequate replacements.
3. Technological Innovation: Although various technological advancements such as 3D surveying and drone applications are reshaping the industry, many small surveying firms struggle to adopt these innovations due to financial constraints and the declining number of younger employees skilled in these technologies.

These challenges, if not addressed effectively, could further diminish the capacity to manage infrastructure in rural areas and respond to disasters, potentially delaying initiatives aimed at improving digital infrastructure, including those undertaken by the government and private sector.

Future Prospects

In light of the backdrop of these challenges, Dynamic Map Platform is committed to executing roll-up M&A strategies in the surveying industry to establish a robust surveying network that will contribute to the sustainability of digital infrastructure and the surveying sector in Japan. The acquisition of Nihonkai Survey Design marks the first step in this initiative. The newly established Dynamic Map Platform Consultants will spearhead the integration of surveying, design, and consulting firms across various regions, aiming to create a unified group management structure focused on shared resources, skills investment, and technological advancement to foster business expansion and improve digital infrastructure development.

Comments from Leadership

Shuichi Yoshimura, CEO, Dynamic Map Platform: “We are thrilled to welcome Nihonkai Survey Design into our group. Our vision revolves around ‘Modeling the Earth’ and leveraging surveying data to address societal issues. The need for robust infrastructure repair and disaster response is underscored by the increasing frequency of natural disasters and deteriorating public works.”

Masakazu Aso, CEO, Nihonkai Survey Design: “For over 40 years, we have been deeply embedded in the regional surveying sector. This acquisition presents a promising opportunity to address ongoing challenges in the surveying industry. We look forward to contributing to the digital infrastructure that supports our society.”

Moving forward, Dynamic Map Platform seeks to harness M&A opportunities and advancements in technology to actualize its vision of “Modeling the Earth.”