When people ask what has made the biggest difference on our jobsites in the last ten years, reality capture is always near the top of my list. We all know construction changes fast, and we need good information to keep up. That is where reality capture comes in. It turns what used to be guesswork into something you can see and measure.
I started working with laser scanners and 360 photos back when most people thought they were just nice to have. Now they are becoming the standard on complex projects.
But it is not about the technology itself. It is about what it lets our teams do. We can verify work faster, catch mistakes earlier, and give owners and trades the confidence that what is on the drawings matches what is actually in place.
Today, we use reality capture for much more than just final as-builts.
We scan slabs before concrete is poured.
We verify existing conditions and incorporate them into 3D models.
We use drones to track progress in real time.
We share 360 photos so teams can check details without waiting for a site walk.
It helps our field teams, our office teams, and even our clients stay on the same page.
Reality capture is not just about fancy equipment. It only works if people know how to use it. We spend time training superintendents and project managers to trust the scans and photos and to know what to look for.
The technology is only as useful as the team using it.
Another benefit that often gets overlooked is trust. When you have an accurate record of what has been installed, you avoid a lot of finger-pointing. Instead of debating what went wrong, everyone can focus on solving the problem. That saves time, money, and relationships on the jobsite.
If you are wondering how to get started, you do not need to buy the biggest scanner or fly drones every day. Start small.
Pick one project that needs better documentation. Try a 360 camera walk once a week or scan an existing area you are about to renovate. Use that information to answer a real question. Once people see the value, they will start asking for it on every job.
I am still learning better ways to use reality capture every year. It is one of the best bridges between the digital model and the real world we are building every day.
If you want to share ideas about how you are using scans, drones, or photos, or if you just want to see how we are putting it to work, I am always glad to connect.
