Fieldbook and geodatabases: tools for field data acquisition and analysis

Abstract We introduce FieldBook and GeoDatabase, 2 new and effective tools for geologic field data acquisition and analysis. FieldBook is an application for Apple's Newton MessagePad. Geological data collected at the outcrop, including notes and drawings, can be entered directly and on-site. The formalization of the multiparameter information leads directly to a consistent database. This procedure results in a complete, up-to-date database where all information collected by different researchers in a project is available anytime, and no data are lost. GeoDatabase is an application based on FileMaker™ Pro, representing the FieldBook interface on PC/Macintosh. GeoDatabase provides extensive search possibilities and strong export features that are needed for field-data analysis, either in the field or in the office. It can be used as a central database within a local network with several users on either PC or a Macintosh. FieldBook and GeoDatabase both are simple to use, yet they satisfy the demands of field campaigns involving numerous scientists. Applications of field projects in the crystalline basement of the Salalah area and the Masirah ophiolite are given.