Which two geodetic datums are commonly used in surveying?

The choice of WGS 84 and NAD 83 as commonly used geodetic datums in surveying is significant due to their widespread application and compatibility with modern geospatial technologies.

WGS 84 (World Geodetic System 1984) is a global reference system used primarily for GPS, providing a standard framework for geographic coordinates worldwide. Its global applicability is essential for tasks that require precise positioning across diverse regions, particularly in navigation and mapping applications.

NAD 83 (North American Datum 1983) is a regional geodetic datum that serves as a standard in North America. It is based on a regional terrestrial gravity model which is closely aligned with WGS 84. NAD 83 is heavily used in land surveying, mapping, and engineering in the United States and Canada, making it a crucial datum for local and national infrastructure projects.

Both datums have been adopted for various types of geospatial work, thus making them the most common references used by professionals in surveying. Their interoperability also allows for seamless integration between global and regional data, which is important for comprehensive geospatial analysis.