- Some geologists work to study specifically how minerals respond to stress. They use engineering programs to simulate different stresses based on the information about different types of stone that they have collected. These programs are used to test sites for various building projects, or examine mineral-based construction materials for integrity and suitability.
- Buildings are not the only things engineers create digital models of. Many geologists study natural disasters that are affected by the earth, such as earthquakes and volcanoes. Using very intricate computer programs, they create models of these disasters to better understand how they work, and how certain events set chains of action into motion. Computers are then used to sense and even attempt predictions of these events.
- Although geologists use computers often in their work, this does not keep them behind a desk. Many geologists are hired to investigate sites around the world for valuable minerals and deposits of oil. Companies need geologists to tell them where the deposits are located and how to dig for them. Geologists travel from place to place, testing soil samples and giving their opinion on the rock formations nearby to help others make decisions. To help, they use portable computer devices to analyze the soil or compare topography maps to their surroundings.
- The computers and computer programs that geologists use has drastically cut down on the amount of time geologists need to do their survey work. A project that once took days or weeks now only takes a few minutes with the right software. This has changed the time priorities of geologists drastically. Instead of asking other geologists for help and comparisons, or collecting materials, geologists can now use computer programs to immediately compare findings around the world. Many companies are hiring fewer geologists now that so much can be done by only one.
- The type of software geologists use depends on their focus. Some may use programs focused specifically on map analysis and representation. One program may focus on maps that show fault lines. Another may give a view of mineral deposits layers. Some programs compare multiple kinds of information in one map. Other geologists use 3D programs to test the strain on rocks in specific shapes. Some use simple diagnostic programs that show the geometric qualities of minerals and maps.
- Although some companies are hiring fewer geologists since one can accomplish so much using computer programs, opportunities for geologist positions are expected to continue growing. This is primarily because older geologists who do not have experience in the modern computer software are retiring, and are replaced by younger geologists who have learned the latest geology software and can apply it at their job.
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