“Discretizzazione” and Data Analysis at the Time of “Total Survey”

The chapter contains considerations and methods of analysis of data acquired using modern surveyingtechnologies, applied to cultural heritage. Three case studies are carried out. They are differentin type of monuments, aim of survey and survey techniques used. The large amount of data acquiredthrough innovative techniques of photographic survey and laser scanning requires an adequate processof “discretizzazione”. It will change an uncritical “total survey” into a selective and effective analysisand communication process. An excess of information could distract from the actual purpose of survey,and it could provide the illusion of a comprehensive understanding of the monument. Actually, the realknowledge does not come from the amount of data acquired but from the ability to analyze them, to relateand communicate to potential users.