SPOC Modernized:

Furture-Proofing Alberta's Survey Plan Submission Platform

Computer screen showing the SPOC Survey Plan Online Checker mapping application.

See How MNC Modernized Alberta's Survey Plan Online Checker (SPOC)

Watch the Survey Plan Online Checker (SPOC) is a geospatial web application that automates the validation of digital survey plans submitted for registration at Alberta’s Land Titles Office (LTO).

Project Overview

Survey Plan Online Checker (SPOC) is a geospatial web application that automates the validation of digital survey plans submitted for registration at Alberta’s Land Titles Office (LTO). SPOC plays a critical role in ensuring submission accuracy through CAD file validation and geo-referencing checks.

SPOC performs three key quality assurance functions:

Layer Content Check – Confirms the CAD file meets required layer and element structure
Geo-Referencing Quality Check – Verifies CAD file alignment with legal land description, projection, and datum specified in the metadata
Dimension Check – Compares CAD line lengths against annotated dimension text

Once a file passes these validations:

It is uploaded to a map viewer
The user can verify alignment with Alberta’s cadastral fabric
The system returns an automated email containing the finalized digital package for LTO submission

Since January 2010, it has been a mandatory government requirement that all digital survey plans registered at Alberta Land Titles be processed through the SPOC system. All files are verified for proper geo-referencing in accordance with LTO standards.

Challenge

The SPOC platform’s browser-based technology was scheduled to reach end-of-support on December 31, 2020.

Digital survey plan submission platform with mapping tools and user authentication screens

Key Limitations Included:

Users would no longer be able to access the SPOC application

Digital plan submissions would be halted

Alberta Land Titles Office and over 400 Alberta land surveyors and their clients would be directly impacted

The province’s digital registration process would be significantly disrupted

The Solution

To prevent service disruption, MNC (Martin Newby Consulting Ltd.) re-engineered the SPOC platform using modern technologies:

Person working at a computer workstation with multiple screens displaying digital data and software interfaces.

Key Steps in the Solution:

Safe Software’s FME

Safe Software’s FME – For spatial processing

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Amazon Web Services (AWS) – For secure and scalable hosting

Freshdesk (Freshworks)

Freshdesk (Freshworks) – For support ticketing and help desk services

Reconfigurable Survey Plan Checker (SPC) API

Reconfigurable Survey Plan Checker (SPC) API – For modular, adaptable plan validation workflows

The Results

The modernization of SPOC secured the future of Alberta’s digital survey plan submission process while preserving its core functionality and ease of use.

Person in a high-visibility safety jacket using a stylus to enter information on a handheld tablet device

Key benefits included:

Risk Mitigation

Modernizing SPOC eliminated the risk of running an unsupported platform.

Sustained Longevity

The upgrade extended the system’s lifespan and operational continuity.

Improved User Experience

The new application mirrors previous functionality while offering a smoother interface, limiting retraining needs.

Preserved Workflows

Modern SPOC replicates all plan checks, workflows, and package creation processes from the original system.

Modern Infrastructure

Cloud hosting, API-based configuration, and integration with Alberta’s cadastral web map align the system with current geospatial technology standards.

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MNC’s modernization of the SPOC platform reinforces its position as a trusted partner in digital transformation, delivering sustainable, future-ready solutions that ensure continuity, scalability, and confidence in land administration systems.

6-Month Modernization

OF MISSION-CRITICAL SYSTEM

400+ Surveyors

SUPPORTED WITHOUT DISRUPTION

Modern UX

WITH MINIMAL RETRAINING REQUIRED

Service Categories:

Technology Platforms or Tools:

About MNC

The Cadastral and Parcel Mapping Experts

MNC is a trusted leader in cadastral and parcel management with 25+ years of experience delivering GeoAI-ready datasets, modernizing parcel fabrics, and automating GIS workflows. As an Esri Gold and Cornerstone Partner with Parcel Management and State and Local Government Specialties, MNC provides scalable advanced GIS, ArcGIS Pro, FME automation, MicroStation, AutoCAD and cloud-ready geospatial systems that improve data quality and support government land administration modernization across Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean.

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