Aerial analytics: choose the site question before the flight
Plan aerial analytics around the site question, required output and verification method, with Novo aerial-tour work as a visual reference.
Aerial analytics starts with a defined question: whether the team needs visual context, a mapped surface, a measured quantity or a repeatable comparison. Each needs a different capture and checking process. An aerial panorama can explain a location without being a survey-grade map.
Match aerial capture to the decision
For an event venue, an aerial view can explain entrances, surrounding roads and the relationship between buildings. For an earthworks decision, the buyer may instead need a georeferenced surface and a documented volume calculation. Specify the required information before choosing an aircraft, camera or software subscription. A visually detailed result does not establish positional accuracy.
Plan comparison and handover
If the intention is to compare dates, agree coverage, viewpoints, reference information and a naming system before the first visit. Record capture dates and any areas that could not be seen. Choose an output the receiving team can use: a linked panorama, annotated imagery, a map or a technical dataset. Keep interpretation and measured claims separate so later users understand what has actually been checked.
What to include in your project brief
- Define the site question and decision owner.
- Identify visual versus measured outputs.
- Confirm access, operating permissions and flight feasibility.
- Agree reference data, checks and exclusions.
- Specify file formats, hosting and update responsibilities.
Real Novo projects relevant to this guide
Novo’s MAEPS listing documents aerial 360° and virtual-tour content. It illustrates site context and remote exploration; it does not publish a survey accuracy report or an aerial-analytics result.
MAEPS — Virtual Tour + Aerial 360° Content. Explore event spaces and site surroundings before planning a visit.
Questions before you commission
Is an aerial 360° tour an orthomosaic?
No. A panorama supports looking around from a viewpoint. An orthomosaic is a processed map-like image; its geometry and accuracy need their own specification.
Can the same capture support future comparisons?
Sometimes. Plan repeatable coverage and reference information first, and agree how changes will be checked rather than relying on an informal visual comparison.