Planning for Accuracy 

It is important to have realistic expectations for the accuracy of the data. We can map drone data to .1’ accuracy, given certain conditions, one of the most important, being the quality of targets used for GCPs, which is discussed in the “Ground Control” section.

Low image resolution and bad lighting can also contribute to loss of accuracy. That being said, the value of the drone increases as site size increases. Some small sites will be better shot on the ground, especially if you need accuracy better than .1’. Large sites are where you will really see some serious time saving. The drone is a broad paint brush, which can do 90% of the work for you, but there will usually be things you as surveyors need to verify in the field and shoot traditionally.