Lowest-Cost Projects Don't Yield Best-Case Data

By Leum Monroe, Business Development Manager

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) LiDAR requires extensive training, costly equipment, and data processing expertise to deliver A-plus dataset products. Only when these products are provided in a professional and consistent manner can they add value, reduce cost, and improve client margins. And only when their accuracy is survey-grade can environmental consultants and site owners use them as engineering tools.

At Skytec, our turnkey UAS LiDAR services are provided at the best practice level with an overarching commitment to safety, reliability, and quality management. Our industry is ever-changing, and new players are entering the game at a dizzying pace. While many may be able to talk the talk, we’re hearing about many scenarios in which providers are unable to deliver on lofty promises — in other words, classic cases of “over-promising and under-delivering.”

Over recent months, I’ve seen some examples of bottom-dollar purchasing of UAS LiDAR services. When I’ve circled back with clients who chose to commoditize UAS LiDAR, I’ve found that the results are more costly in the long run because of the corrective actions that are needed. Sometimes these corrective actions are enormous — and they always exceed any apparent savings at the purchasing stage.

Professionals who labor to support the built and natural environment understand this. Those who decide to purchase UAS LiDAR services on a least-cost basis might be short-sighted. That is, unless their clients are willing to accept C-minus data products.

At Skytec, we approach projects with an eye toward effectiveness, efficiency, and accuracy. If you’re looking for a UAS provider that can deliver, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d be happy to help.

Leum Monroe serves as Business Development Manager for Skytec LLC. In its fifth year, Skytec has built a respected brand in the UAS industry. In addition, the company is accomplishing client objectives with Satellite Imaging; and advanced GIS and Remote Sensing Technologies.