A method and apparatus for managing the integration of multiple pipeline datasets into a combined dataset or superset otherwise known as an asset survey. This is done first by correlating a data set with a spatial representation of the pipeline, the data set including a plurality of point features along a length of the pipeline. Each point feature has an associated source type, source name, indication type and status associated. A priority is assigned to data source. A weld-matching module is used for integrating a second data set with the asset survey. As each subsequent dataset is integrated into the asset survey a data management module is responsible for setting the status field of each feature point dependant upon at least one of its relative age, source and type. The field "status" has five distinct states; active, inactive, archived, super inactive and super active. Active is representative of the latest and most accurate condition of the pipeline. Inactive indicates that the record has either been superseded by better data or the record is from new data and has not yet been validated as accurate. Super inactive indicates the record has been superseded to the extent that it cannot subsequently be made active through normal data management processes. Archived indicates the record is associated with a piece of pipe that was removed from service (i.e. cut out of the pipeline). Super active indicates that the record is an absolute fact, and will always remain active irrespective of subsequent data sets.
