aerial-decisions

Author: Jim Gibson

Top 5 Technologies for Construction Project Managers

As the CEO of a drone data collection company, my goal is to look for ways to leverage emerging technologies that help commercial construction companies complete their projects on time and on budget. To achieve this, we rely on several technologies that enable us to collect, analyze, and share data with our clients efficiently. In this blog post, I will discuss the top five technologies that we use to accomplish our goals.

Commercial building construction

Top 5 Technologies for Construction Project Managers

Drones

You guessed it, Drones. Otherwise known as sUAS, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems are the primary technology that we use to collect data for construction projects. Drones allow us to capture high-resolution aerial imagery and 3D models of job sites quickly and safely. This technology helps us to identify potential issues and track progress throughout the construction process, allowing us to make adjustments in real-time. Drones can also cover a large area in a short amount of time, providing construction managers with a quick and efficient way to monitor progress. This saves time and allows construction managers to focus on other important tasks.

Drone Data Software

There are several drone data software options available, including Drone Deploy, Pix4D, Propeller, and Agisoft Metashape. Each of these software options has its own unique features, advantages, and disadvantages. For example, Drone Deploy offers a user-friendly interface and integrates with several other software options. Pix4D provides a more advanced photogrammetry solution and is best suited for large-scale projects. Propeller offers a cloud-based platform that allows for easy collaboration and sharing of data. Agisoft Metashape is a powerful solution that offers high-precision data processing and is best suited for complex projects. Regardless of the software option, drone data software enables us to process and analyze the data collected by our drones quickly and accurately, making it easier to identify potential issues and track progress.

Geographic Information System (GIS)

GIS technology allows us to overlay drone data on top of maps, creating a visual representation of the construction site. This technology enables us to identify potential issues and track progress in real-time. GIS also allows us to share data with our clients more efficiently, enabling them to make informed decisions about their projects.

Machine Learning

Machine learning technology allows us to analyze large amounts of data quickly and accurately. This technology enables us to identify patterns and trends in the data, making it easier to identify potential issues and track progress. Machine learning also enables us to make more accurate predictions about project timelines and budgets, ensuring that our clients’ projects are completed on time and on budget.

3D Orthomosaic for Drone Construction Monitoring

Augmented Reality (AR)

AR technology enables us to create immersive, 3D simulations of construction projects. This technology allows us to visualize the project before it is built, making it easier to identify potential issues and make changes. AR also enables us to communicate more effectively with our clients, ensuring that everyone is on the same page throughout the project.

In conclusion, I believe that technology plays a crucial role in helping commercial construction companies complete their projects on time and on budget. By utilizing drones, drone data software, GIS, machine learning, and AR, drone service providers like Aerial Decisions can help improve on construction project efficiencies, reduce waste, and deliver construction project data that meet our clients’ needs. I am excited to continue to explore new technologies as they emerge and to use them to help our clients succeed in the future. As construction project managers, what technologies do you use to help you get your projects completed on time and on budget?

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

May 15, 2023
5 Types of Data Drones Commercial Land Developers Look For

As drone technology evolves, so too do the applications for which they can be used. One industry that has been particularly impacted by the use of drones is commercial land development. As the commercial construction industry is poised to grow from $6.4 trillion USD to $14.4 trillion USD by 2030, the genesis of projects in this high growth sector involves land acquisition and commercial development.

What types of drone data do land developers look for?

Drones are being used to capture a wide variety of data for these projects, allowing developers to make more informed decisions and improve project outcomes. From commercial high rises to student housing for education, drones are fast becoming a standard part of the developers equipment portfolio. But what type of data are drones really capable delivery of that delivering that help commercial land developers?

Here I list some of the types of data that drones can capture for commercial land development projects:

Early construction phase for new student housing project

Aerial Imagery

Perhaps the most obvious use of drones in land development is to capture aerial imagery. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can capture detailed images of the land, including topography, vegetation, and existing infrastructure. Drone service providers use this information to create detailed 3D maps and models that can be used to inform design decisions.

Thermal Imagery

Drones can also be equipped with thermal cameras, which can detect heat signatures. This can be useful for land development projects where heat signatures can indicate potential problems, such as leaking pipes or hotspots in electrical systems. Thermal imagery can also be used to detect changes in temperature that may indicate changes in land use, such as the construction of new buildings or roads.

LiDAR

Drones can be equipped with LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors, which use lasers to create high-resolution maps of the land. This technology is particularly useful for land development projects that involve complex terrain or structures, such as bridges or tunnels. LiDAR can also be used to detect changes in elevation, which is important for projects that involve grading or excavation.

Environmental Data

Drones can be used to capture a wide variety of environmental data for land development projects, including air and water quality, noise levels, and wildlife populations. This information can be used to identify potential environmental impacts of the project and develop mitigation strategies.

Construction progress monitoring includes orthomosaic images

Construction Monitoring

Aerial Decisions uses drones to monitor construction progress and detect any potential issues that are time sensitive in nature. By capturing high-resolution images and videos of the construction site, we assist developers in identifying potential problems early on and make any necessary adjustments to the project. Additionally, drones can also be used to inspect properties and land without the need for workers to access potentially hazardous areas. This can help to improve safety on job sites and reduce the risk of accidents. Another useful drone application is in the area of on site supply management. Drones can capture volume data for project stockpiles and immediately transfer that data to supply chain managers, ensuring the timely delivery of fresh supplies to each job site.

In conclusion, I can say definitively that drones have become a valuable tool for commercial land development projects. They are capable of capturing a wide variety of data, including aerial and thermal imagery, LiDAR data, environmental data, and construction monitoring data. By using drones to collect this information, developers can make more informed decisions and improve project outcomes.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 30, 2023
3 Advantages of using Drones for Bridge Inspections

Bridges and overpasses are a critical part of America’s infrastructure. They facilitate the transportation of people and goods across the country and are essential to the nation’s economy. However, many of these structures are aging, and the need for infrastructure repairs is becoming more pressing.

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, the average age of the 614,387 bridges in the United States is 44 years. The ASCE also rated the condition of bridges on a scale of 0-100, with 0 indicating failure and 100 indicating excellent condition. The national average score for bridges was 43, which is considered poor.

Many bridges and overpasses are in need of repair, with rust, corrosion, and cracks in their structures posing significant safety risks. In 2021, the American Road and Transportation Builders Association’s (ARTBA) Bridge Report revealed that there are 231,000 bridges in the United States that need repair work.

The need for infrastructure repairs is particularly high in the Northeast and Midwest regions of the country. The ARTBA report found that these regions have the highest percentage of structurally deficient bridges. The state of Iowa has the highest percentage of structurally deficient bridges in the country, with over 4,500 bridges in need of repair. Pennsylvania has the second-highest number of structurally deficient bridges, with over 3,000 in need of repair.

Bridge with hard to reach inspection points

Drones Can Easily Locate Important Repairs

Drones can be a useful tool in inspecting bridges and overpasses. Aerial drone photography can be especially helpful capturing high-resolution images and videos in tight spaces underneath bridges and overpasses. The data drones can capture provide valuable information about the condition of a structure. This information can help engineers identify areas that require repair work and develop maintenance plans.

Drones Increase Workforce Safety

Drones can also improve safety in bridge inspections. Inspectors often need to climb up to great heights to inspect a bridge, which can be dangerous and time-consuming. With drones, inspectors can remain on the ground and operate the drone remotely. This reduces the need for man-power and makes inspections safer.

Rural bridge over flowing river

Drones Reduce Inspection Costs

The use of drones for bridge inspections can help save money in a number of areas. The US government estimates that a typical bridge inspection costs between $4,500 and $10,000 per inspection. Costs include worker compensation (and benefits), equipment (transportation and storage) and traffic management expenses. According to Drone Deploy, drones can reduce those costs as much as 75% and the California Resources Corporation estimates drone inspections results in a 90% reduction in inspection time.

In conclusion, the state of bridges and overpasses in the United States is concerning. With the average age of bridges being 44 years and the national average condition score being 43, the need for infrastructure repairs is pressing.

Fortunately, the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA; P.L. 117-58), enacted on November 15, 2021, established federal programs specifically to fund bridges and significantly increased the total amount of federal funding that can be used for bridge construction and repair.

Ultimately, drones can be an effective tool in inspecting bridges and overpasses, improving safety, saving costs, and increasing efficiency in inspections.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 18, 2023
Why Telecom Managers Use Drones for Cellular Tower Inspections

Cellular technology manager’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and reliability of cell towers. Regular cell tower drone inspections are crucial to identify and address any potential problems before they become major issues that can impact network performance and safety. While traditional tower inspections are still commonly used, the use of drones has become increasingly popular due to their ability to save time, money and improve human safety.

Drone Inspections Save Time

Using drones for cell tower inspections can significantly save time. Drone inspections can be completed much faster than traditional inspections, as they can quickly cover the entire tower without needing to set up complex rigging or scaffoldings. In addition, drones can capture high-quality images and video footage of the tower, allowing for more detailed analysis and faster identification of potential issues. This means that the inspection process can be completed quickly, and any necessary repairs or maintenance can be performed in a timely manner, reducing downtime for the network.

Modern cellular or PCS base station

Drones Improve Cost Savings

Using drones for cell tower inspections can also save money. Traditional inspections can be expensive, requiring specialized equipment and skilled technicians. Drone inspections are more cost-effective as they require fewer personnel and resources to complete the inspection process. Additionally, drone inspections can identify issues early, which can reduce the cost of repairs and maintenance in the long run.

Ensure Worker Safety

Finally, using drones for cell tower inspections can also improve human safety. Typical cellular towers (or PCS Base Stations) range from 50-200 feet. Traditional inspections often require technicians to climb the tower, which can be a hazardous task. Drones can eliminate the need for technicians to climb the tower, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. This is especially important in remote or hard-to-reach locations, where the risk of accidents can be even higher.

In conclusion, cell tower inspections are critical for ensuring the safety and reliability of cellular networks. The use of drones for these inspections offers significant benefits, including time and cost savings, as well as improved human safety. Cellular technology managers are constantly exploring and adopting new technologies like drones to ensure that their networks remain safe, reliable, and cost-effective.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 15, 2023
5 Benefits of Using Drones in Commercial Real Estate

The adoption of aerial drone photography in the commercial real estate industry is on the rise. Like other industries, there are many benefits of using drones for commercial real estate, including improved efficiency, cost savings, and higher quality data. In this blog post, I will discuss the top five benefits of using drones in commercial real estate, along with recent statistics illustrating the uptick of drone adoption in the industry; specifically in the Los Angeles market.

Los Angeles Commercial Retail Center

Here we go:

Faster and More Efficient Surveys

Drones are able to capture high-resolution aerial imagery of properties and land. This means that surveys can be conducted faster and more efficiently, saving time and reducing costs. In fact, a recent survey found that 90% of commercial real estate professionals believe that drones have improved the speed and efficiency of their work.

Improved Marketing

Drones can capture stunning aerial footage of properties that can be used in marketing materials. This can help to attract potential buyers or tenants, as well as showcase a property’s unique features. According to a recent report, using drones in real estate marketing can lead to a 68% increase in listing views.

Commercial Real Estate Rooftop Drone Inspection

Enhanced Property Inspections

Drones can perform inspections of roofs, facades, and other hard-to-reach areas of a commercial real estate property. This can help to identify potential issues before they become major problems, leading to cost savings and improved safety.

More Accurate Property Valuations

Drones can capture high-quality aerial imagery that can be used to create accurate 3D models of commercial properties. This can help to provide a more accurate valuation of a property, leading to better informed decisions and potentially higher profits.

Increased Safety

Drones can be used to inspect properties and land without the need for workers to access potentially hazardous areas. This can help to improve safety on job sites and reduce the risk of accidents.

Now, let’s take a look at some recent statistics on drone adoption in the commercial real estate industry. According to a recent report, the use of drones in commercial real estate has increased by 200% in the last year alone. Additionally, the Los Angeles commercial real estate market has been identified as having significant potential for the use of drones in real estate. With the city’s large and diverse real estate market, drones can be used to capture aerial footage of a wide range of properties, from industrial warehouses to luxury residential homes.

In conclusion, I believe the benefits of using drones in commercial real estate are numerous. From improved efficiency and cost savings to higher quality data and increased safety, drones are helping to revolutionize the way that real estate professionals conduct their work. As adoption rates continue to grow, I fully expect to see even more innovative uses of drones in the commercial real estate industry.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 11, 2023
Why Infrastructure Projects Need to Include Drone Monitoring

As long as I’ve been in the drone tech industry, the most common discussion of where the biggest growth sector in drone applications has been in the construction space. Most consider top of mind commercial, industrial and even residential construction. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll see that an often overlooked sector of the construction industry lies at the heart of the most significant growth area in the near term; construction and infrastructure projects.

Why is that?

The recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed into law in November 2021, includes $1.2 trillion in funding for critical infrastructure projects over the next decade.

This funding is expected to accelerate the adoption of drone technology in state government infrastructure programs. According to a recent report by Drone Industry Insights, the global infrastructure inspection market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 21.5% from 2020 to 2027. In recent years, drone technology has seen rapid development and widespread adoption in many industries.

State government infrastructure programs are at the top of that list. Drones offer unique capabilities that can help with planning, design, and maintenance of critical infrastructure projects.

In this blog post, I will share 4 key reasons for using drone technology to aid state government infrastructure programs and how the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and federal funding is impacting the progress of critical infrastructure programs.

drone monitoring for road infrastructure projects

Surveying and Mapping

Drones can quickly and accurately survey and map large areas of land, including difficult-to-reach areas such as mountainous terrain, forests, and wetlands. This technology can be used to gather data for various infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and pipelines. According to a recent study by ResearchAndMarkets, the global drone surveying market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 35.2% from 2021 to 2026.

drone monitoring for infrastructure projects

Construction Monitoring

Drones can be used to monitor construction sites, track progress, and detect potential safety hazards. This technology can help improve construction efficiency, reduce costs, and increase safety. According to a recent report by DroneDeploy, drone use in construction increased by 239% in 2020 compared to the previous year.

Bridge infrastructure construction inspections with drones

Inspections

Drones can perform inspections of critical infrastructure, such as bridges, dams, and power lines, without the need for costly and dangerous manual inspections. This technology can help identify potential safety issues before they become critical and prevent downtime due to unexpected failures. According to a recent report by Markets and Markets, the global drone inspection market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 23.6% from 2021 to 2026.

Environmental Monitoring

Drones can be used to monitor environmental conditions, such as water quality and air pollution, in remote areas. This technology can help government agencies identify and mitigate environmental risks, such as oil spills and chemical leaks. According to a recent report by MarketsandMarkets, the global drone environmental monitoring market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.4% from 2021 to 2026.

In conclusion, drone technology has significant potential to aid state government infrastructure programs. From surveying and mapping to construction progress monitoring, drones can help government agencies improve efficiency, reduce costs, increase safety, and mitigate environmental risks. As I mentioned above, the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and federal funding are expected to drive growth in this market sector, which is projected to grow at a significant rate over the next decade.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.

March 4, 2023
Up in the Air: The Key Statistics on Drones in Construction
Drones are quickly becoming a staple in the construction industry. They are increasingly being used for a wide range of tasks, including surveying, mapping, and progress monitoring. And the key statistics show that drone adoption in construction is on the rise. Let’s take a closer look at the statistics.

Drones in Construction

According to various market reports and studies, the use of drones in the construction industry is on the rise and is expected to continue growing in the coming years. Here are some key market statistics on the use of drones in construction:
1. Market size: The global construction drone market size was valued at $1.12 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $2.82 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 17.1% during the forecast period.
2. Increased adoption: The adoption of drones in the construction industry has increased significantly in recent years. In 2020, more than 50% of construction companies in the US were reported to be using drones for construction project monitoring.
3. Time and cost savings: The use of drones in construction has been shown to save time and reduce costs. For example, construction companies that use drones for progress monitoring have reported a reduction in project time by up to 20%.
4. Improved safety: The use of drones has improved safety on construction sites by reducing the need for workers to access hazardous areas or perform dangerous tasks.
5. High-quality data: Drones are equipped with high-quality cameras and sensors that provide detailed images and data of construction sites. This data can be used to make informed decisions and improve the accuracy of construction projects.
Overall, the use of drones in the construction industry is growing rapidly and is providing significant benefits to construction companies in terms of time and cost savings, improved safety, and high-quality data. Statistics show the expectation is the use of drones in construction will continue to grow as technology advances and construction companies continue to realize the benefits of this innovative technology. If your company is looking to leverage the latest drone technology to get your projects completed on time and within budget, call us for a free consultation today.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.
February 21, 2023
The Construction Revolution: The Impact of Drones on Project Monitoring
As construction executives, it’s important to stay ahead of the curve and utilize new technologies that can save time and money on construction projects. One such technology is the use of drones to monitor construction progress.

Construction Crew Site Walk-Through

In the past, construction managers would have to physically visit a construction site to inspect the progress and take photos or videos. This process was not only time-consuming but also expensive, as it required transportation costs and the cost of having someone present at the site.

A recent study found that drone usage has been steadily on the rise. Currently, drones are being utilized on 55% of projects, up from 48% in 2021 and 36% in 2022. According to Dodge, usage is higher among large contractors (67%) compared with small contractors (9%).

By using drones, construction managers can now remotely monitor construction sites in real-time and receive high-quality photos and videos of the progress. This has several benefits, including the following:
- Increased Efficiency: Drones can cover a large area in a short amount of time, providing construction managers with a quick and efficient way to monitor progress. This saves time and allows construction managers to focus on other important tasks.
- Reduced Labor Costs: With drones, there’s no need to have someone physically present at the site to inspect the progress. This reduces labor costs and makes the process more cost-effective.
- Improved Safety: Drones can be flown over hazardous areas, reducing the risk of injury to construction workers. They can also be used to inspect tall structures, reducing the need for workers to climb up and inspect them.
- Increased Accuracy: Drones are equipped with high-quality cameras and can provide detailed images and videos of the construction site. This allows construction managers to identify any issues and make necessary changes in real-time, resulting in more accurate and efficient construction.
- Time Savings: With the ability to remotely monitor construction sites, construction managers can save time by not having to physically visit the site. They can also quickly receive and review progress reports, allowing them to make informed decisions and keep the project on track.
In conclusion, the construction revolution is in full swing and the impact of drones on project monitoring and management is un-mistakable. It’s clear, using drones to monitor construction progress is a cost-effective and efficient solution that can help construction executives save time and money. With the ability to remotely monitor construction sites, reduce labor costs, improve safety, increase accuracy, and save time, it’s clear that drones are a valuable tool for the construction industry.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.
February 8, 2023
How Drones Can Solve Several Construction Industry Challenges
The construction industry involves the building, maintenance, and improvement of infrastructure and buildings. This includes a wide range of activities, such as residential and commercial construction, road and bridge building, and utility work.

There are several challenges that the construction industry faces, including:
1. Cost and budget management: Construction projects often have strict budgets and timelines, and any delays or cost overruns can have significant financial implications.
2. Safety: The construction industry has a high rate of workplace injuries and fatalities. Ensuring the safety of workers is a top priority.
3. Productivity: Construction projects can be complex, with many different stakeholders and variables involved. Maintaining productivity and efficiency is crucial to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Several other challenges, including, skilled labor shortages, environmental concerns and the rapid technological advancements are prominent but in this post, I want to focus on how drone technology can help the top 3 on the above list.

Drone pilot working with site GM to solve construction project challenges.

Here are my Top 5 ways drone technology can solve challenges the construction industry faces today:

Construction Monitoring

Drones provide a cost-effective way to manage critical functions for Contractors and Construction Firms. Drones can produce high-resolution, on-demand, aerial photography of important project elements such as monitoring subcontractors, stockpile management, materials, equipment, and site security.

Construction Surveying

The use of drones in construction surveying has become commonplace in today’s building landscape. Where older surveying technologies fell short in terms of production turn-around, cost, and accuracy, photogrammetry has been a game-changer in each of these areas.

Construction Progress Reporting

Key stakeholders (i.e.., Investors) can be visually connected to project progress in new and innovative ways. The programmatic use of drones to produce high-quality aerial images and video enables near real-time inspection of all aspects of the project. Images can be easily rendered in 3D models, orthomosaic maps, and other photogrammetry data to monitor site progress.

Construction Inventory Management

One of the most basic functions for a contractor is inventory management. Aerial photography of a job site provides actionable data for contractors to assess and respond to critical inventory needs. Drones transform the risky, labor-intensive and time-consuming job of manual inventory counts and volumetric assessments into timely and cost-effective tasks.

Construction Structural Site Integrity

Assessing structural vulnerabilities is a key job function of the project General Contractor. Key stakeholders are acutely attuned to the notion of minimizing the risk associated with potential structural defects. The use of drones to identify such defects helps to mitigate potential lawsuits and other aspects that could create costly delays in project completion.

It’s clear drones have the potential to solve several construction industry challenges and make project deliverables more efficient, safe, and cost-effective.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.
January 8, 2023
What is an Orthomosaic?
Most people are well aware that drones have cameras and can take photos and videos while in flight. But few outside the industry realize just how useful those pictures and videos can be for a variety of business, real estate, agriculture, construction, insurance and more.

Drones are capable of highly technical data collection using a variety of on-board technology, sophisticated cameras and 3rd party software. From inspections and infrastructure management to surveying and mapping, we have only just begun to realize the full potential for drone technology to deliver value for industries of all types.

If you’re new to the drone industry it can sometimes feel daunting to keep up with the technology and the myriad of commercial applications that drones can handle. One of the more common uses of drones for industry involves the use of photogrammetry.

What is Photogrammetry?

Photogrammetry involves taking multiple pictures of an object, for example aerial photographs of an empty parcel of land, and assembling them into complex 2D or 3D models.

Glendale Adventist 3D Map

These models can be used by industries ranging from construction, real estate, agriculture and more to understand and evaluate development requirements; oftentimes much faster and with less cost than conventional methods.

Once assembled into the the final image, the individual images are stitched together to form a new, sharper image called an Orthomosaic.

Google Maps Image

Orthorectified Image

What is an Orthomosaic?

Orthorectified Image

An orthomosaic is a large, map quality, image made by stitching together a significant number of smaller, individual images (called orthophotos) into one high resolution image.

Orthoimages are aerial photos that are corrected for:
- Lens Distortion
- Camera Tilt
- Perspective
- Topographic Relief (adjusted for the curvature of the earth’s surface)
These Orthoimages have no distortion and are uniformly scaled across the image. The main difference between a typical aerial photo and an orthophoto is:

The aerial photo shows the effects of the natural curvature of the earths surface (showing, for example, the sides of buildings from a top down perspective) while the orthophoto is geometrically corrected. This orthorectified image presents a geometrically accurate top down view of objects on the ground.

How are Othomosaics Being Used?

When integrated into sophisticated software (like Drone Deploy), Orthomosaics are used to get the most up to date aerial view of an object on the earth’s surface; for example, a parcel of land or new construction project. Real estate professionals consider orthomosaics to be the best way to get an up to date and accurate aerial photo of a large parcel of land. Construction firms look to this type of aerial image as a way to get accurate measurements of a project as well as regular updates on the progress of each construction site. Agriculture can use orthorectified images to inspect crops and determine plant health. Drones can also produce images that, when converted into orthomosaics, can be used to aid in inspecting rooftops, buildings, solar panels, bridges, pipelines and cell towers.

And the list goes on.

Why Are Orthomosaics Important?

In short, orthoimages can be used to help streamline processes, create massive efficiencies of scale and help industries save valuable time and money. Whether you need aerial photography services for construction, real estate, land development or inspections, Aerial Decisions can handle all of your photogrammetry needs.

From The Editor:

Do you need to hire a professional drone service provider? To speak to an aerial data specialist, fill out a form, email us or for even faster response times, give us a call at (833) FLY-4YOU or (833) 359-4968. Check out our transparent pricing at Drone Photography Pricing and watch this space as we expand on the above topics and more over the coming weeks and months. If you like this post, feel free to click the share button at the bottom of the page. We appreciate you helping us by spreading the content we share on our blog.
June 17, 2022