Direct Method

Indirect Method

1

Very accurate but slow and tedious

Not very accurate but quicker and less tedious.

2

Expensive

Reasonable cost

3

Appropriate for small projects requiring high accuracy, e.g., layout of building, factory, structural foundations, etc.

Suitable for large projects requiring moderate to low accuracy, e.g., layout of highway, railway, canal, etc.

4

More suitable for low undulating terrain.

Suitable for hilly terrain.

5

Calculations need to be carried out in thefield

Calculation in the field is not mandatory.

6

After contouring, calculation cannot be checked.

Calculations can be checked as and when needed