The Accuracy of the Triangular Method in Digitizing Small Cadastral Parcels: A Study of Area Deviations and the Impact of Scale (1:500 as a Case Study)
Keywords:
cadastral digitization, , Triangulation Method, Geographic Information Systems (GIS, area accuracy, Standard Deviation (SD), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE).Abstract
Within the framework of digital transformation and the reconstruction of Syria’s cadastral infrastructure after 2025, this study aims to evaluate the accuracy of the Triangulation Method in digitizing small cadastral parcels, in recognition of the importance of this property category in documenting ownership and resolving community disputes. The research is based on an applied study conducted on three cadastral maps from different cadastral areas within Idlib Governorate. A sample of old paper maps was selected and digitized using AutoCAD Raster Design software. The georeferencing process was performed using Ground Control Points (GCPs), and accuracy indicators—including the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Standard Deviation (SD)—were computed to estimate spatial deviations between paper records and digital outputs.
The results indicated that deviations did not exceed 2% in small parcels, confirming the effectiveness of AutoCAD Raster Design, when employing the Triangulation Method, in correcting paper distortions and preserving the geometric integrity of land parcels. These findings affirm that adopting the Triangulation Method for the digitization of small cadastral parcels constitutes a precise and reliable scientific approach that can be generalized to similar Syrian villages, thereby enhancing the overall quality of digital cadastral records
