ForConstructionPros.com

GPS grade control technology requires a substantial initial capital investment, as well as requires a slightly different approach to grading operations vs. traditional grade staking. This combination can make any contractor apprehensive about diving in.

But those who have invested in this technology have seen its many benefits lead to a quick return on investment. There are even those who claim companies that don't adopt the technology will get left behind - rendered uncompetitive.

Following is a look at three contractors who have made the leap and the returns they've seen from their investment.

No more waiting
Larry Cox is the owner of a small family-owned grading and excavation company in Arkansas that has been in business since 1972. "I have three boys working with me and three other employees. We do utility work, road work, earthwork for commercial sites and some airport work," he says. "Out typical job size runs between $150,000 to $500,000."

The company purchased its first Topcon GPS grade control system last year when it was working on a softball complex for the City of Heber Springs. The GPS system helped the company overcome the limitations of its laser grade control system. The project required multiple grade changes. "There were so many of them that you couldn't keep your laser set up," recalls Cox. The GPS system allowed the company to not only tackle this job, but eliminate the grade stakes.