Question 1

What's the difference between DroneDeploy and Pix4D?

Accepted Answer

DroneDeploy is a cloud-based platform ($329/month) ideal for construction monitoring, with fast processing, AI analytics, and Procore integration. Pix4D ($350/month) is professional photogrammetry software offering survey-grade accuracy (1-2cm with GCPs), desktop processing control, and CAD/GIS integration. We use DroneDeploy for rapid construction updates and Pix4D for survey-grade engineering deliverables requiring certified accuracy.

Question 2

What is DJI Terra and when should I use it?

Accepted Answer

DJI Terra is DJI's native drone mapping software ($1,299/year) optimized for DJI drones like Matrice 400 RTK. It offers real-time 2D mapping during flight, LiDAR processing for Zenmuse L3/L2, and tight integration with DJI hardware. Best for DJI ecosystem users who want streamlined workflows. For multi-platform compatibility or advanced analytics, consider DroneDeploy or Pix4D instead.

Question 3

What is ROCK Cloud and how does it process LiDAR?

Accepted Answer

ROCK Cloud is the cloud processing platform for ROCK Robotic LiDAR sensors (R3 Pro, Ultra). Upload raw LiDAR data and receive georeferenced point clouds, typically within 2-4 hours. The platform handles trajectory processing, georeferencing, and colorization from photos. Subscription is included with ROCK sensor purchase. We use ROCK Cloud for rapid LiDAR deliverables on topographic mapping and corridor survey projects.

Question 4

What is Autodesk ReCap and how is it used?

Accepted Answer

Autodesk ReCap is point cloud processing software that converts scan data into viewable/editable formats. ReCap Pro ($370/year) registers scans, cleans data, and exports RCS/RCP files for Revit and AutoCAD. It's essential for Scan-to-BIM workflows—we use ReCap to prepare point clouds for Revit import. ReCap also provides basic measurement and annotation tools for reviewing scan data.

Question 5

What can Leica Cyclone do for point cloud processing?

Accepted Answer

Leica Cyclone is professional point cloud software for registration, visualization, and export. Cyclone REGISTER 360 ($6,700) handles multi-scanner projects with visual registration. Cyclone 3DR creates meshes and generates deliverables. Cyclone FIELD is mobile app for on-site QC. We use Cyclone for Leica scanner data (RTC360, BLK360) and complex multi-scan registration requiring precise control.

Question 6

What is Trimble RealWorks used for?

Accepted Answer

Trimble RealWorks is professional point cloud processing software optimized for Trimble scanners (X12, X9, X7). Features include automatic registration, point cloud cleaning, surface modeling, and CAD export. The software excels at survey-grade workflows with direct export to Trimble Business Center and Civil 3D. We use RealWorks for Trimble scanner projects requiring engineering-grade deliverables and survey documentation.

Question 7

How does FARO SCENE process scan data?

Accepted Answer

FARO SCENE is point cloud software for FARO Focus and Freestyle scanners. It handles registration, colorization, and export to various formats. SCENE 2go ($990/year) is cloud-based for collaboration. Key features include automatic target detection, on-site registration preview, and WebShare for browser-based viewing. We use SCENE for FARO Focus Premium projects and when clients require web-based point cloud access.

Question 8

Is CloudCompare good for viewing point clouds?

Accepted Answer

CloudCompare is excellent free, open-source point cloud software for viewing, measurement, and analysis. It supports all major formats (E57, LAS, PTS), provides distance/volume tools, and handles large datasets efficiently. While it lacks the automation of commercial software, it's ideal for reviewing deliverables, quick measurements, and learning point cloud concepts. We recommend CloudCompare to clients for viewing their scan data.

Question 9

What is the Matterport platform and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Matterport is the leading virtual tour platform creating immersive 3D experiences. Capture with Matterport Pro3 camera or compatible devices, upload to cloud for automatic processing, and receive walkthrough tours with dollhouse view, floor plans, and measurements. Hosting plans range from free (1 space) to $69-$309/month for multiple spaces. We use Matterport for real estate marketing, facility documentation, and client presentations.

Question 10

What is NavVis IVION and who should use it?

Accepted Answer

NavVis IVION is an enterprise-grade indoor reality platform for large facilities. It hosts NavVis VLX3 scan data with measurement tools, BIM integration, and multi-user collaboration. Features include asset tagging, hotspots linking to documents, and API for custom integrations. Best for facility managers, large corporations, and anyone needing measurement-enabled virtual tours at scale. Pricing is custom based on space and users.

Question 11

Should I choose Matterport or NavVis IVION?

Accepted Answer

Choose Matterport for: real estate marketing, small-medium spaces, simple sharing, and budget-conscious projects. Choose NavVis IVION for: large facilities (100,000+ sqft), enterprise collaboration, BIM integration, and ongoing facility management. Matterport is simpler and more affordable; NavVis IVION offers more powerful enterprise features. We help clients select the right platform based on space size, use case, and long-term goals.

Question 12

What is OpenSpace and how does it track construction?

Accepted Answer

OpenSpace is AI-powered construction documentation platform using 360° cameras to capture jobsites during walkthroughs. AI automatically maps imagery to floor plans, enabling visual progress tracking and BIM comparison. Features include automatic progress calculations, issue tracking, and integration with Procore/BIM 360. We use OpenSpace for ongoing construction monitoring where frequent captures are needed throughout project lifecycle.

Question 13

How does Avvir compare scans to BIM models?

Accepted Answer

Avvir is AI platform that automatically compares reality capture data to BIM models, detecting deviations and tracking progress. Upload point clouds or 360 photos, and AI identifies installed elements, measures completion percentage, and flags discrepancies. Critical for construction QA/QC workflows. We use Avvir for projects requiring automated Scan-vs-BIM analysis and progress tracking against design models.

Question 14

What can Reconstruct AI do for construction projects?

Accepted Answer

Reconstruct is AI-powered construction analytics platform combining drone imagery, 360 photos, and laser scans for comprehensive site documentation. Features include 4D scheduling comparison, AI progress detection, and predictive analytics for schedule risks. Integrates with P6, MS Project, and major construction platforms. We use Reconstruct for complex projects requiring multi-source reality capture with scheduling integration.

Question 15

Why is Autodesk Revit the standard for Scan-to-BIM?

Accepted Answer

Autodesk Revit dominates Scan-to-BIM because it offers native point cloud import (via ReCap), parametric BIM families, extensive AEC industry adoption, and interoperability (IFC, DWG export). Our scan data imports directly into Revit for seamless BIM conversion. We deliver registered point clouds in RCP/RCS format (Revit-native via ReCap) plus E57 and LAS for maximum platform compatibility.

Question 16

Can ArchiCAD work with point cloud data?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ArchiCAD supports point cloud import via E57 and other formats. ArchiCAD users can receive our point cloud data for their own BIM modeling workflow. We deliver registered point clouds in E57, LAS, and other formats compatible with ArchiCAD's point cloud tools. ArchiCAD's direct modeling approach can be advantageous for renovation design workflows using our scan data.

Question 17

What software does THE FUTURE 3D use for processing?

Accepted Answer

Our software stack includes: DroneDeploy and Pix4D for drone photogrammetry, ROCK Cloud for LiDAR processing, Autodesk ReCap and Trimble RealWorks for point cloud processing, FARO SCENE and Leica Cyclone for scanner-specific workflows, and Matterport/NavVis IVION for virtual tours. We select software based on equipment used and deliverable requirements—ensuring optimal results for each project type.

Question 18

Do I need special software to view my deliverables?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the deliverable type. Point clouds: Use free CloudCompare or Autodesk ReCap (free viewer). Virtual tours: View in any web browser (no software needed). CAD drawings: View in AutoCAD or free DWG viewers. We can provide web-based viewing links for most deliverables, eliminating software requirements for basic access.

Question 19

Is cloud or desktop processing better for my data?

Accepted Answer

Cloud processing (DroneDeploy, ROCK Cloud, Matterport): Faster turnaround, no hardware requirements, automatic updates, easier sharing. Desktop processing (Pix4D, ReCap, Cyclone): More control, works offline, better for sensitive data, no ongoing subscription for some tools. We use both depending on project needs—cloud for rapid delivery, desktop for maximum control and survey-grade accuracy verification.

Question 20

What file formats can your software export?

Accepted Answer

We export all industry-standard formats: Point clouds (E57, LAS/LAZ, RCS/RCP, PTS, XYZ, PLY), CAD (DWG, DXF, PDF), GIS (GeoTIFF, SHP, KML), Mesh (OBJ, FBX, glTF, STL), Orthophotos (GeoTIFF, JPG, PNG). Specify required formats in your quote request—we ensure deliverables integrate with your existing software workflows.

Software & Processing FAQ