Balancing a job site requires a different level of precision than grading miles of roadbed for a new highway. For example, vertical blade position (2D) information may be enough for one application, yet others require vertical and horizontal (3D) awareness.

Those 2D-oriented projects might use simple set-ups, such as a sonic sensor that follows a curb, string line, or existing surface; or a combination of rotary lasers and laser sensors.

Some 3D guidance projects allow extensive use of GNSS or GPS, while others require the use of total stations to monitor or control machine positions. Millimeter GPS may be another option, which combines the strengths of GNSS and laser technologies for even higher accuracies.