The AGS data format, the AU localisation, and what it means for modern geotechnical practice

Tim Swavley

The AGS data format (named after the AGS in the UK, not our beloved AGSociety) provides a file structure through which the data often presented on paginated geotechnical borehole logs can be shared between project stakeholders.  In the Australian context, this format has the opportunity to dramatically reshape and increase the productivity of our workflows.  Starting from the fundamental position of “what is AGS data”, this presentation will explore the background of the format, discuss why and how the AGSociety’s working group undertook the 2023 localisation, and demonstrate some common scenarios under which AGS data can add value.  The presentation will conclude with some practical advice for those who might want to incorporate AGS data into their inhouse and project team workflows.

About the speaker

Tim Swavley Senior Geotechnical Engineer, MacGeo

Tim has 15 years’ of geotechnical consulting experience including managing and performing geotechnical site investigation works for projects of varying sizes throughout Australia and internationally.  Tim’s current role with Macquarie Geotechnical is the Digital Opportunity Manager, a position which requires Tim to govern the company’s geotechnical data generation and management practices and to collaborate with clients and other stakeholders to identify digital engineering opportunities enabled by good geotechnical data.  Tim was a member of the AGS’s AGS4AU localisation working group and helped deliver the societies 2024 national roadshow.

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