Software for Your Service

?? Hello friends, and welcome to the latest edition of our bi-weekly newsletter:?Drone Enabler's Digest!

If you're curious to learn how drones can transform your business, the secrets of successful drone programs, and more about the people behind the golden brackets at Consortiq [C], then we're glad to have you along for the journey!

Previously, we've discussed the importance of preventative maintenance, whether you should run drone operations in-house or outsourced, what to consider when starting an in-house operation, ROI on investments, and even what Consortiq stands (and flies) for as a company.?

Now, we'd love to share what we've learned about Software and Services.

Ready? Then let's take flight!

BLUF - Bottom-Line/Up-Front

?? Drones are great tools, but only part of the solution

?? The right software can make an incredible difference for data processing

?? Comparing Pix4D vs. DroneDeploy: which one should you choose?

What Will Become of Your Data?

?? Great news! You’ve come up with a business case, identified some drone use cases, and got approval to get your program started.?

Finally, right? Ok - so now what?

Well, a drone is just a flying sensor, whether a photo or thermal camera, or even a methane detection sensor. It captures the data you tell it to.

And then? Well, that depends on what happens next, really.

Will that data live (and die) in a spreadsheet, or on some folder on a shared IT drive? And if so, how does that generate the ROI you promised?

Truth be told, drones are exactly as described above - a tool for capturing data. What you do with that information is the next step in the equation.

You’re going to need some software to store the data, help analyze it and ideally, present you with further opportunities to reduce risk or costs in your organization.

So, What Software?

There is a plethora of software available, and what you choose will depend on several factors…

• What is the use case you need it for? There may be something specific for you. Establish your why, and then proceed from there. Never be afraid to reach out for help.
• Do you have other software already? E.g. Bentley Context Capture, REVIT. If so, you might be best served to start with what you already utilize.
• Do you need integration into your other software? Or do you want a standalone system? Again, it's about answering your "Why" or "What do you want."

When In Doubt, Map It Out

We always recommend you capture a site-map first, so you can base all your other data on that.

Typically a site map mission is flown at a higher altitude. As a result, the imagery is quick to gather, even though it isn’t in a really high resolution. I.e. It’s good for an overview, but not for an inspection (that's another discussion altogether).

So, let's assume you need to map things out. What next?

Drone-Driven Data Duel: DroneDeploy Vs. Pix4D

When it comes to?drone mapping software, two of the biggest out there are DroneDeploy and Pix4D.

We’ll examine these two platforms for our discussion today, but first, a word on other drone mapping software solutions.?

With even a quick search of the internet, you’ll discover?multiple mapping choices available. Some are free, while others cost thousands of dollars. And, of course, not all drone mapping software is created equal.

You’ll want to consider if the software is designed for acquiring data, processing data, or as an all-in-one solution.

?? Further, keep in mind that some all-in-one solutions limit your ability to manipulate point clouds. If so, they may not be ideal if you’re looking for survey-level accuracy.

Pix4D?is easily one of the most established mapping software programs in the industry. And, if you’re looking for professional mapping with the greatest control of your outputs, Pix4D is probably your software of choice.?But, all that comes with a fairly steep learning curve - with so many options available for it, it certainly takes a bit of practice to use it to its full advantage.

Additionally, Pix4D processes data in the cloud, but also locally if you wish, providing even more freedom in how you process your data.

DroneDeploy, on the other hand, provides an easier path for those starting out, with a simpler learning curve.

Importantly, the platform’s user-friendly interface allows pilots to plan and fly missions without much effort.

Once you collect the data, you can upload it to the company’s cloud-based platform and process it into maps and other products. Like Pix4D, the?applications?for DroneDeploy are numerous.

However, because DroneDeploy processes your?data in the cloud, operators looking to fix point clouds or refine their output may find less freedom than those using Pix4D.

So between Pix4D and DroneDeploy, which drone mapping software should you choose?

Well, the bottom line come down to this:

?? For the most part, Pix4D and DroneDeploy have a lot in common, with the key difference being advanced capabilities vs. ease of use. If you're new to the field, consider started with DroneDeploy.

Later, if you find yourself in need of more control, consider making a switch to Pix4D.

If you're curious to learn more about these two programs, be sure to check out our detailed breakdowns, right here:

Drone Software: What to Know About Pix4D

DroneDeploy vs. Pix4D: Which Is Best for You?

Thanks for reading!

That just about does it for this week's newsletter, and be sure to check out more in the future!

Now, of course we know it's not always that easy to get a new program up and running. Sometimes, you need a guiding hand to help you out and get started.

Heck - sometimes you just want someone to do it for you! (and that's fine too!)

So, if you ever want to learn more about what you can do with drones, we're more than happy to chat!

Follow us on?Consortiq LinkedIn, or connect with one of the team.

Thanks for reading, and feel free to DM us anytime!

Garf Beverley, Managing Director for Consortiq.

Jennifer Taylor, Business Development Manager - EMEA