Reality Capture vs As-Built vs Progress Monitoring: Construction Use Cases
An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.
| Feature | Reality Capture | As-Built Documentation | Progress Monitoring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Documentation | Record | Tracking |
| Timing | Pre-construction | Completion | Ongoing |
| Output | Point cloud/BIM | BIM/drawings | Comparison reports |
| Accuracy | Survey-grade | Contract-spec | - |
| Use | Design basis | Operations | Management |
Reality Capture
Existing Conditions
Reality capture documents existing conditions for design and planning.
Pros
- Complete documentation
- Design basis
- Clash detection
- Permanent record
Cons
- One-time capture
- Post-processing
- Storage needs
Best For
As-Built Documentation
Final Record
As-built documentation records completed construction for handover.
Pros
- Complete record
- Owner handover
- Operations support
- Warranty documentation
Cons
- End of project
- Single capture
- Contract dependent
Best For
Progress Monitoring
Continuous Tracking
Progress monitoring tracks construction through regular scanning.
Pros
- Early issue detection
- Schedule tracking
- Quality control
- Documentation
Cons
- Ongoing cost
- Regular visits
- Comparison complexity
Best For
Our Expert Verdict
Reality capture for design, as-built for handover, progress for tracking.
Choose Reality Capture if...
Choose reality capture for existing conditions and design basis.
Choose As-Built Documentation if...
Choose as-built documentation for project closeout and operations.
Choose Progress Monitoring if...
Choose progress monitoring for ongoing construction tracking and QC.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start scanning?
Reality capture before design. Progress monitoring throughout. As-built at completion.
Professional Services Using This Equipment
TheFuture3D offers professional services utilizing Reality Capture and As-Built Documentation for superior results.
3D Virtual Tours
Immersive Matterport virtual tours for properties and spaces
3D Laser Scanning
Millimeter-accurate point cloud capture with Trimble and NavVis
Scan-to-BIM
Transform scan data into intelligent Revit models
Digital Twins
Living 3D models with real-time IoT integration
As-Built Documentation
2D CAD Floor Plans and PDF Documentation from 3D scanning
Google Street View
Google Trusted Photographer services for business interiors
Industries That Benefit From This Technology
Reality Capture and As-Built Documentation technology drives innovation across these key industries.
Schools & Education
Virtual campus tours, facility documentation, and safety planning
Real Estate
Immersive property tours and marketing assets
Retail
Store planning and virtual store tours
Hospitality
Hotel virtual tours and event space showcases
Insurance
Property documentation and claims support
Property Management
Portfolio documentation and move-in/out inspections
Available Nationwide
TheFuture3D provides professional 3D scanning services across the United States.
Florida (Headquarters)
Northeast
West Coast
South & Midwest
Need Help Choosing?
Our experts can recommend the right equipment for your specific project requirements.