You are my new hero,Surfer Joe!!
I had to retire about the time this GPS thing was getting a grip on the industry so I never got to use it.Since I need glasses to read anything closer than arms length I often wonder how "user friendly" that system would be to me.
There is no doubt that it could be the greatest thing ever used the way it is sold if it works the way it was sold but hearing what you have just posted puts another face on things and I am just old and cynical enough to buy into those arguements and want to say "I told you so!".
There is no doubt that the technology will prevail and we need to accept the challenge of learning "something new" to stay current in the industry or we have to move on.
The electronics on the new machines and engine controls are an example,they are a fact of life.Yes,they eliminate some jobs but they create new ones so as with most anything else in life,we must keep an open mind and continue to learn.
I agree that the laser was a great tool but it has its place.Laying pipe is where it really "shines".LOL.
It can be used to great advantage when you are working alone but given the choice I often choose a Locke level and a folding rule.Sometimes a string line and a line level will get the job done faster than the laser with less baggage as well.
I must admit though that being able to carry a grade accurately while sitting in the cab without having to dismount sounds pretty good to an old bird like me and I really would like to give it a shot.Trouble is,noone wants an old man around these days.The kids run you off after they see the work that you can do 'cause you make them look bad.Life goes on.Ron G