Creating a standardised GIS workflow that streamlined the QFIELD & QGIS workflow templates for Tom Haley Ecology.
Client Background
Tom Haley Ecology Ltd (T.H.E.) are an awesome environmental consultancy that carries out ecological assessments throughout the UK, often working with a network of subcontractors who collect data in the field.
The Problem
After putting their newly learned skills into action, the DPI team realised they needed another course, tailored specifically to the political and constituency data they use daily.
After working with me, Tom Haley Ecology Ltd now has a fully integrated GIS ecosystem that brings immediate operational benefits, including:
● Consistent, standardised data collection
● Faster project turnaround times thanks to reduced manual data handling
● Improved data accuracy and traceability
● Professional, branded outputs that enhanced client presentations
The client can manage updates independently, avoiding delays if I’m unavailable. And the system is ready to scale with any future business growth, along with a single, powerful QGIS template that ensures every project runs smoothly.
Pretty cool result, eh?
But how did I achieve this?
Map outputs & QFIELD views
Customised map outputs with automatic features, symbology and layout to Tom Haley's preferences
Adding new features in the QFIELD app using the template. Pre-defined forms and symbology make this process simple, repeatable and consistent.
When certain criteria are met a new pop up is available to read the condition assessment criteria and add in the information in the app
Customised map outputs with automatic features, symbology and layout to Tom Haley's preferences
What I Did
- To solve the problems, I followed a 5-step process focused on understanding, design, testing and training:
1. Discovery & Analysis
I began by reviewing their existing workflows, project templates and data collection forms, mapping pain points and manual steps in the reporting process.
By speaking with the team, I pinpointed where time was being lost and how automation could add value.
2. Designing the Custom QGIS & QFIELD Template
Next, I designed a unified GIS system that would work for both in-house and subcontractor teams:
● Created a custom QGIS project template containing all required data layers, field attributes and symbology
● Built standardised drop-down menus and forms to reduce human error
● Made sure of full compatibility with QFIELD, allowing surveyors to collect field data offline and sync it seamlessly back into QGIS
To make the template truly efficient and user-friendly, I then:
A. Added automated expressions to pre-fill or validate key data inputs
B. Developed custom symbology that reflected habitat types and survey categories clearly
C. Structured layer grouping and labeling logic to keep the workspace organised and intuitive
This standardises workflows but also creates a scalable, future-proof GIS system that will grow with the business.
3. Automation & Reporting
To speed up output creation, I:
● Built report and map templates that generate directly from QGIS
● Automated survey tables and schedules
● Reduced duplication by enabling data reuse across multiple outputs
Once data is entered into the field, the reporting workflow becomes automated and error-free.
4. Iteration & Testing
Each version was tested through several feedback rounds with the client and subcontractors. I refined field structures, symbology and forms based on real-world use and documented every change to create a clear update trail.
5. Training & Knowledge Transfer
To future-proof the system, I delivered:
● Written and video training guides for all workflows
● Targeted sessions to fill knowledge gaps
● Step-by-step instructions for how to modify the template