Abstract: A method for collecting and analyzing spectrum data to identify a composition of a sample material is described. The method includes obtaining a sample material, receiving a geographical location of the sample material at a handheld instrument, and analyzing the sample material to obtain sample spectrum data using the handheld instrument. The method also includes determining whether to perform an analysis of the sample spectrum data using the handheld instrument, or to perform the analysis of the sample spectrum data using a remote computer. The method also includes determining a composition of the sample material based on an analysis of the sample spectrum data and recording in a memory area at least one of the composition and the geographical location of the sample material.