This research proposes a detailed analysis of the potential of MMS (Mobile Mapping
Systems), supported by SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation And Mapping) algorithms, performed
on a multiscale test field in order to make a concrete contribution to the morphological study of
cities. These systems, developed with the aim of acquiring a large number of points in a short
time, are able to map the surrounding area and automatically localise themselves in real time in
relation to a determined reference system. The analysed area, located in Venice, was divided into
three different test fields characterised by typical elements potentially comparable to those of other
urban realities. The data were acquired using the LiBackPack C50, Kaarta Stencil and Heron Lite
systems and compared quantitatively and qualitatively with data obtained from more traditional
surveying techniques. Specifically, the data obtained from TLS (Terrestrial Laser Scanning) surveys,
supported by topographic measurements, were the most accurate basis on which to evaluate the
accuracy and completeness of the three different MMS devices. The standard deviation values were
initially analysed in the final 3D global models using the C2C (Cloud to Cloud) and C2M (Cloud
to Mesh) distance calculation methods. Subsequently, the geometric differences were investigated
through the extraction of horizontal profiles, and two more specific 2D analyses were carried out:
the first inspecting the residual parameters calculated after the Helmert transformation from two
sets of control points obtained from the profiles, followed by a local strain analysis. The study of
the local deformation parameters allowed us to validate the results obtained and to identify the real
limits of these survey instruments. The aim was to make a concrete contribution to the formalisation
of an operative protocol for the morphological study of the city, exploiting the potential of these
technologies to overcome the differences in scale and the gap between outdoor and indoor spaces
