DroneDeploy is a cloud-based software that enables simple and reliable drone operations. Founded in 2013, DroneDeploy is a San Francisco-based startup that provides cloud-control software solutions for drones which include automated flight safety checks, workflows, and real-time mapping and data processing.
The software allows users to create maps and 3D models in one click, which has resulted in users mapping over 1.2 million acres with DroneDeploy. DroneDeploy’s aerial mapping make complex data collection fast, easy and simple. DroneDeploy is a team of artists and engineers passionate about making the sky accessible and productive for anyone. The team members believe that drones are an integral part of the future of knowledge, and are working to further develop the software to make that possible.
DroneDeploy makes it possible for almost anyone to fly drones and is the easiest way to create industrial-grade aerial data. DroneDeploy’s powerful cloud software allows users to automatically create a high-resolution 3D map with survey-level accuracy which can be used, shared or stored in the cloud. Mobile apps for iOS and Android empower users to set their flight path with two taps, which is automated to capture all the aerial data that you need. DroneDeploy also features automatic safety geo-fencing that helps you stay compliant with local regulations. And lastly, the software is extremely fast and does all the processing for you, having your map ready so you can take action immediately.
In a recent interview with DroneDeploy, the team was kind to share some background information and details regarding the company and its work. DroneDeploy was founded by Mike Winn, Jono Millin, and Nick Pilkington. Having a strong background in computer science and recognizing drones as a revolutionary way to collect data, the three saw an opportunity to create develop cloud-based software to process that data in a scalable way and make it more accessible and useful for end users. The founders created a free easy-to-use mobile app with software that can be used for a wide range of applications and industries ranging from construction and real estate to forestry and mining.
One example of how DroneDeploy can be used is in agriculture where farmers can use drones to measure the photosynthetic activity of their plants, which enables farmers to see where plant activity thrives. Without drones, it would take farmers a very long time to examine the crops they plant over very large areas by walking on foot. Aerial imagery from drones helps them to collect, analyze and make decisions regarding their planting and farming techniques much quicker in order to maximize their crop output and profits.
DroneDeploy is always continuing to improve their offering with the release of updates to drive better performance as well as new features intended to meet the needs of its wide range of users, such as the recently released elevation toolbox and volume measurement tool. The company has partnered with leading drone manufacturers like DJI to provide its software to end users in a variety of industries, including agriculture, real estate, mining, construction and many other commercial and consumer arenas. DroneDeploy is compatible with any drone.
The DroneDeploy team recently partnered with The Nature Conservancy to work on a ‘citizen scientist project’ called Phones and Drones. DroneDeploy will collect drone maps of California’s coastline to create a map that measures the impacts of El Niño, which will enable scientists to analyze the data and make personal recommendations to policy makers and governments on the ways in which we can conserve the coastline and better adapt communities. More information about this specific project can be found on their blog, The Nature Conservancy’s blog, or under our Non-Profit Spotlight page in the section featuring The Nature Conservancy.
Read this blog post case study about one of DroneDeploy’s projects- Mapping 1,000 km of highway with a drone
For more information about DroneDeploy, visit their website at www.dronedeploy.com
Written by Kathleen Emerson (1/26/16). Updated (2/12/16).