Workflow Overview

We begin by planning and executing a structured drone flight using the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise (RTK) with a base station to ensure high-accuracy geotagging. The RTK positioning enables centimeter-level horizontal and vertical accuracy across the site, reducing or eliminating the need for Ground Control Points (GCPs) in many cases.

Collected imagery is processed using DJI Terra or RealityCapture, depending on project needs. These platforms generate:

• High-resolution orthomosaics
  
• Digital Surface Models (DSMs)
  
• Digital Terrain Models (DTMs)
  
• Dense point clouds
  
• 3D textured meshes
  

These outputs serve as foundational spatial layers used for site documentation, development planning, and terrain analysis.

Mapping & Analysis Capabilities

Once data is processed, we use Virtual Surveyor and QGIS to extract terrain features, create contour maps, measure site dimensions, and analyze slope and elevation. These tools allow us to:

• Define lot boundaries, clearing zones, and grading areas
  
• Create contour and slope maps for drainage and grading
  
• Map vegetation coverage, access roads, and utility corridors
  
• Monitor ongoing site changes over time
  

Whether it’s a bare lot, partially developed land, or an active construction site, we can produce accurate, map-ready visuals to support planning, permitting, or reporting requirements.

Deliverables & File Formats

Deliverables are tailored to the stage and needs of each project and may include:

• Orthomosaic maps in GeoTIFF, JPG, or PDF
  
• Contour lines in DXF, SHP, or GeoPackage formats
  
• DTMs and DSMs in GeoTIFF or LAS for elevation modeling
  
• CAD-ready exports (DXF/DWG) for site layout and design integration
  
• Point clouds (LAS/LAZ) for 3D modeling or volumetric planning
  
• Annotated PDFs or printable site plans with legends, scale bars, and labels
  
• Optional 3D web model via Nira for quick stakeholder review
  

All outputs are georeferenced and formatted to your preferred coordinate system (e.g., UTM, NAD83, or custom site grid).

Use Cases & Applications

• Subdivision planning and layout verification
  
• Pre-construction topography for grading and cut/fill estimation
  
• Construction progress documentation (over time)
  
• Permit and zoning map creation
  
• Environmental and forestry site planning
  
• Access road, lot clearing, or utility corridor mapping
  

We can also support recurring updates to track changes over time — especially useful for development sites that evolve in phases.

Accuracy & Limitations

Using RTK and controlled photogrammetry workflows, we regularly achieve 3–5 cm horizontal accuracy, with 5–10 cm vertical accuracy, sufficient for construction layout, site prep, and terrain planning. However:

• Surfaces like vegetation, standing water, or shade can impact model clarity
  
• GCPs are recommended for projects that require certified vertical control or high-precision deliverables across multiple days or flight segments
  
• Data is not intended to replace a legal boundary or cadastral survey
  

We provide full transparency about data limitations and will discuss use-case requirements upfront to ensure deliverables align with your intended application.