Author name: teammdg

In today’s increasingly complex planning and development environment, data is only as powerful as the insight it provides. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) help transform vast amounts of project information into clear, actionable intelligence—supporting better decisions at every stage of a project’s life cycle. While GIS is often viewed as a mapping tool, its real value lies in its ability to connect data, location, and strategy in meaningful ways. At DCCM, GIS is a critical component of how we help our clients design, develop, and grow with confidence. More Than Mapping: Why GIS Matters GIS goes far beyond creating maps. It is a dynamic, location-based platform that allows organizations to visualize, organize, and manage land-based assets in a way that is accessible, accurate, and easy to maintain. By replacing paper maps and dependence on institutional knowledge, GIS gives teams immediate access to reliable information—whether they are in the office, on campus, or in the field. This accessibility improves coordination, reduces risk, and empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions quickly and consistently. Connecting Data, Place, and Performance At its foundation, GIS connects critical information to physical space. Through the integration of satellite imagery, aerial and drone-based mapping, and ground-level data, GIS creates a comprehensive picture of how a site functions. Buildings, circulation systems, utilities, and underground infrastructure can all be viewed and analyzed together, revealing relationships that are difficult to identify through traditional documentation. This holistic view supports smarter planning, clearer communication, and better alignment between short-term needs and long-term objectives. Driving Infrastructure Efficiency and Long-Term Value GIS plays a vital role in infrastructure planning, management, and performance. When thoughtfully implemented, it supports ADA compliance assessments, security planning, maintenance operations, capital improvement planning, feasibility studies, and long-range infrastructure strategies. DCCM’s web-based GIS platforms allow clients to manage and update their data with minimal in-house staffing, while maintaining accuracy and security. The result is a flexible, scalable tool that evolves with the organization and continues to deliver value long after project completion. GIS Solutions Across Diverse Project Types Since 2005, our teams have delivered GIS solutions for a wide range of public- and private-sector clients. Our experience spans university, college, and corporate campuses; city, county, and utility systems; military installations; correctional facilities; hospitals and medical centers; industrial and utility plants; redevelopment and brownfield sites; and master-planned communities managed by HOAs and POAs. We actively maintain GIS platforms for more than thirty clients, encompassing thousands of acres of highly detailed imagery and infrastructure data. Each system is tailored to the client’s specific needs, ensuring the technology supports real-world operations and decision-making. Expertise You Can See—and Trust DCCM’s GIS professionals combine deep technical knowledge with advanced data-collection capabilities. Our team includes GIS professionals holding GISP certifications as well as FAA-certified staff specializing in drone-based aerial mapping. This expertise allows us to provide mapping and analysis services nationwide and in select international locations. With more than 20 years of experience in utility mapping, land-use management, efficiency modeling, trend analysis, 3D modeling, and land-development feasibility studies, our team turns complex datasets into clear, usable tools that support planning, design, and asset management. GIS as Part of an Integrated Design Approach GIS is most powerful when it is integrated into a broader design and engineering process. At DCCM, our GIS professionals work closely with planners, engineers, surveyors, and program managers to ensure spatial data supports every phase of a project. This collaborative approach strengthens coordination across disciplines, improves accuracy, and helps deliver solutions that are cohesive, efficient, and aligned with the client’s long-term vision. The Everyday Impact of Better Data The true impact of GIS is often felt in day-to-day operations – faster access to infrastructure information, clearer communication between departments, reduced uncertainty, and better-informed decisions. These efficiencies may happen behind the scenes, but they play a key role in improving performance, managing risk, and maximizing investment. Turning Information Into Insight GIS transforms project data into a strategic advantage. At DCCM, we are proud of the GIS professionals who develop and maintain intelligent mapping systems that support smarter decisions and stronger outcomes. To learn more about DCCM’s GIS services and how location-based data can support your next project, explore our website and connect with our team.

May is Building Safety Month, an international campaign led by the International Code Council to raise awareness about the importance of safe, sustainable, accessible, and resilient buildings. This year’s theme, Built to Last, highlights the role building safety plays in supporting stronger communities, from safe homes and disaster preparedness to accessibility, code compliance, and long-term resilience. Building Safety Starts Before Construction At DCCM, building safety begins long before construction is complete. It is shaped through thoughtful planning, sound design, strong coordination, careful review, and responsive inspection and construction support. DCCM offers comprehensive building department solutions that support communities with a wide range of needs, from staff augmentation and contract plan review to third-party plan review and inspection services. Our team includes registered engineers, architects, building officials, Certified Access Specialists, and other credentialed professionals who help clients navigate evolving regulations and maintain high standards of safety and professionalism. Supporting Safe, Accessible, and Resilient Communities Building safety is not limited to one phase of a project. It requires coordination across design, permitting, code compliance, accessibility, inspection, and long-term maintenance. DCCM’s building safety services include fire and building code consultation, code enforcement, permit processing and tracking, floodplain administration, Wildland Urban Interface review, accessibility plan review, ADA self-evaluation and transition plans, certified compliance audits, and barrier removal strategies. Through this work, our teams help public agencies, communities, and project owners address safety requirements, improve accessibility, support compliance, and reduce risk while keeping projects moving forward. Recognizing the Professionals Behind Safer Places Building Safety Month is also an opportunity to recognize the many professionals whose work helps protect the built environment. Designers, engineers, architects, inspectors, code officials, contractors, accessibility specialists, and project teams all play an important role in creating places where people can live, work, learn, and gather safely. This month, we recognize the building safety professionals and project teams whose expertise helps create safer places and stronger communities. Explore DCCM’s building safety services to learn how our teams help communities support safe, accessible, and resilient places across the country. Contact us to connect with our team and discuss how we can support your next project.

Why Landscape Architecture Matters Beyond Aesthetics During World Landscape Architecture Month, it is a fitting time to recognize the role landscape architects play in shaping the spaces around us. While landscape architecture is often associated with aesthetics, its value reaches much further. From parks and streetscapes to schools, commercial developments, and community gathering spaces, landscape architecture helps create environments that are functional, sustainable, and built to serve people well over time. How Landscape Architecture Connects People and Place At its core, landscape architecture is about connecting people to their environment through thoughtful design. It considers how outdoor spaces will be used, how they will perform, and how they will respond to the natural conditions of a site. A well-designed landscape does more than enhance appearance. It can improve circulation, create shade and comfort, support safer and more welcoming public spaces, and contribute to the overall success of a project. The Role of Landscape Architecture in Infrastructure Performance Landscape architecture also provides important infrastructure value. Thoughtful site design can help reduce erosion, improve stormwater quality, encourage groundwater recharge, and support long-term site resilience. As communities continue to grow and develop, these considerations become even more important. Landscape architects help bring practical, environmentally sensitive solutions to projects that balance immediate needs with long-term performance. DCCM’s Landscape Architecture Services Across Project Types At DCCM, our landscape architects work across a wide range of project types, including parks and recreation, streetscapes, commercial developments, educational and institutional campuses, residential communities, and amenity spaces. In each case, their role extends beyond selecting plant materials or refining visual character. They help shape how people experience a site, how natural and built elements work together, and how outdoor spaces can best support the goals of the project and the surrounding community. How DCCM’s Landscape Architects Collaborate With Multidisciplinary Teams Because landscape architecture is closely connected to so many other aspects of design, collaboration is a critical part of the process. DCCM’s landscape architects work alongside engineers, planners, and other design professionals to develop solutions that are cohesive, practical, and responsive to the needs of each site. This integrated approach helps ensure that projects are not only visually appealing, but also efficient, durable, and aligned with the broader vision for the space. Sustainable Landscape Architecture and In-House Arborist Expertise Our team’s expertise also includes sustainable design strategies that support and enhance the natural environment. From evaluating site conditions and incorporating appropriate planting approaches to considering long-term maintenance and usability, our landscape architects help create spaces that are both functional and enduring. DCCM also offers in-house arborist expertise, providing additional value through tree analysis, health assessments, and support that can help clients make informed decisions and reduce potential tree mitigation costs. The Lasting Community Impact of Landscape Architecture The impact of landscape architecture is often felt in everyday ways. It can be seen in the comfort of a shaded walkway, the usability of a park, the character of a streetscape, or the way a site manages water after a storm. These elements may not always be the first things people notice, but they play a meaningful role in how spaces function and how communities experience them. Recognizing Landscape Architects During World Landscape Architecture Month During World Landscape Architecture Month, DCCM is proud to recognize the important work of our landscape architects and the value they bring to projects of all types. Their work helps shape stronger, smarter communities through design that is thoughtful, practical, and built for the long term. During World Landscape Architecture Month, DCCM is proud to recognize the important work of our landscape architects and the value they bring to projects of all types. Their work helps shape stronger, smarter communities through design that is thoughtful, practical, and built for the long term. Explore our website to learn more about DCCM’s landscape architecture services, and connect with our team to see how thoughtful outdoor design can support your next project.

In recognition of World Landscape Architecture Month, DCCM is proud to spotlight the professionals whose work helps shape meaningful, lasting spaces in the communities we serve. Landscape architecture brings together creativity, functionality, and environmental awareness to enhance how people experience the built environment. In the following Q&A, Director, Landscape Architecture, Eric Lanehart, PLA, ISA, and Senior Landscape Architect, Richard Malone, PLA, share their perspectives on the profession, what inspires their work, and how thoughtful landscape architecture can make a lasting impact. Their insights help illustrate the depth of expertise behind the spaces and places our teams help create. What drew you to landscape architecture? Eric: This profession allowed me to combine my expertise in plant biology with my knowledge of engineering and art into a lifelong career. Richard: I’ve always had a strong connection to the outdoors and an appreciation for how spaces can shape people’s experiences. Landscape architecture stood out to me because it blends creativity with problem-solving—designing environments that are not only visually appealing but also functional, sustainable, and meaningful. It gave me a way to turn that passion into something tangible that improves how people interact with the world around them. How would you describe the role of a landscape architect to someone outside the industry? Eric: This is a profession that requires you to be a good steward of the land, wear multiple “hats”, and expect 10 years of experience before you are comfortable in the role.  Richard: A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces with purpose. That can range from parks and streetscapes to commercial developments and residential communities—including private backyards, pool designs, and outdoor living spaces like kitchens and patios. We balance aesthetics, environmental considerations, and regulatory requirements while coordinating with engineers, architects, and planners. In simple terms, we design everything from the building footprint outward—shaping spaces that are usable, safe, and enjoyable. What is something people often misunderstand about landscape architecture? Eric: Most folks here the professional and think we always work outside, but in reality, most landscape architects are stuck in the office.  Richard: A common misconception is that it’s just about picking plants or making things look nice. While planting design is important, the profession goes much deeper—grading, drainage, code compliance, accessibility, and long-term maintenance all play a major role. It’s a technical discipline that requires both design thinking and a strong understanding of how landscapes function over time. How does landscape architecture add value to a project beyond aesthetics? Eric: A simple example is that trees and shrubs provide shade for parking lots and help to slow down rain and reduce the speed of stormwater infiltration. Richard: Landscape architecture adds value by improving functionality, enhancing safety, and creating a sense of place. Thoughtful design can increase property value, support environmental sustainability, and improve user experience. It also helps projects meet local codes and regulations efficiently, which can save time and cost during development. What types of projects do you most enjoy working on, and why? Eric: I enjoy working on public recreational areas and seeing people enjoying the spaces many years after they’ve been built. Richard: I enjoy projects where there’s an opportunity to create a strong sense of place and solve real site challenges. Projects that involve integrating natural systems—like preserving existing trees or coordinating design intent with real-world constructability and installation—are especially rewarding. I also enjoy seeing projects through from concept to construction, where you can watch an idea become a space people actually use and enjoy. What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in landscape architecture? Eric: Intern at a plant nursery and a professional landscape architecture office when you are in school. Richard: Get as much exposure as you can early on—whether through internships, site visits, or hands-on experience. Spend as much time in the field as possible working with installation crews to gain a true understanding of the implications each line you draw has during construction. Learn both the creative and technical sides of the profession, including grading, construction detailing, and plant knowledge. Strong communication skills are also key, since collaboration is a big part of the job. Most importantly, stay curious about how spaces work and how people use them. What is one outdoor space, anywhere, that has inspired you? Eric: The Guana River State Park system in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Richard: One space that stands out to me is Central Park. It’s a great example of how thoughtful design can create a lasting impact—balancing naturalistic landscapes with structured elements while serving a wide range of users. It shows how landscape architecture can shape not just a site, but an entire city’s identity and daily life. Looking Ahead As we celebrate World Landscape Architecture Month, we’re proud to recognize the expertise and perspective Eric and Richard bring to the profession. Their reflections offer a meaningful look at the value landscape architecture brings to projects, people, and place. To learn more about DCCM’s services, markets, and the teams behind the work, explore our website. If you’re interested in building your career with us, visit our Careers page to view current opportunities and learn more about life at DCCM.

April 1st marked two milestones for Shine | DCCM: 70 years of shaping Texas’s landscape and the retirement of trailblazing leader Nedra Foster Townsend. Founded in 1956 by Darrell Shine, Shine | DCCM began as a small, passionate land surveying firm rooted in a love for the land and the outdoors. Over the decades, the company has grown into a leader in surveying water and land boundaries, completing hundreds of miles of gradient boundary surveys on Texas’s major rivers and streams and surveying nearly 2 million acres across more than 100 counties. Shine | DCCM is recognized for its expertise in resolving complex boundary issues and is often called upon by other surveyors and attorneys for its deep historical knowledge and technical precision. The firm’s commitment to quality and responsiveness has made it a trusted partner for municipalities, private clients, and state agencies alike. Nedra Foster Townsend’s story is woven into the very fabric of Shine | DCCM. Joining the company in 1981, Nedra became the first and only woman in Texas to earn the title of Licensed State Land Surveyor (LSLS). Rising to President in 2004, she has led the firm through decades of growth and innovation. Nedra’s expertise in water boundaries and her role as an expert witness in more than 20 boundary lawsuits have set new standards for the profession. Her leadership has inspired generations of surveyors, and her legacy includes not only technical achievements but also a commitment to mentorship and professional service. As Shine | DCCM looks back on 70 years of excellence and looks forward to a future built on integrity and expertise, the company honors Nedra’s extraordinary career and the indelible mark she has left on the industry. Here’s to the past, present, and future of Shine | DCCM, and to Nedra, whose vision and dedication have helped define them both. To learn more about Shine | DCCM’s history, expertise, and continued impact, visit www.shine.dccm.com