Positions selected for setting traverse stations vary with the type of survey. In
general, guidelines to consider in choosing them include accuracy, utility, and efficiency.
Of course, intervisibility between adjacent stations, forward and back,
must be maintained for angle and distance observations.The stations should also
ideally be set in convenient locations that allow for easy access. Ordinarily, stations
are placed to create lines that are as long as possible.This not only increases
efficiency by reducing the number of instrument setups, but it also increases accuracy
in angle observations. However, utility may override using very long lines
because intermediate hubs, or stations at strategic locations, may be needed to
complete the survey’s objectives.