GRA D I N G /S I T E P R E P | By Becky Schultz
Drone-based Site Intelligence Pushes Grading Efficiency and Profits Independent Construction Company has cut planning time, reduced waste and eliminated payment disputes by using drone data.
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maximize efficiency of its operations and empower its team. One such technology in its arsenal is TraceAir, a software solution that uses drone data to help construction teams streamline projects. Independent began using it in December 2016, when drones were used for a first test flyover on a project at Faria Ranch in San Ramon, CA. The
contractor has since utilized the technology on 44 projects to improve efficiency across its grading operations. “When we started to use TraceAir and realized how user friendly and accurate it was, we relied on it a lot more and benefited from it significantly,” says Mike Jensen, foreman for Independent. “Unlike other software in the industry, TraceAir
puts data analytics in the hands of field managers. So, now we do many tasks that previously were done at the office, including measurements.”
ACCURATE PROGRESS PLANNING AND TRACKING Planning weekly operations used to take foremen a few hours; it required a site inspection, reviewing project plans
and consulting with engineers to determine the most efficient grading strategy. By adopting drone technology and software, Independent’s foremen are now able to reduce their planning time to less than an hour. Using TraceAir’s 3D topography, the entire team has a clear, accurate view of current site conditions. In addition to a visual representation of the site, they All photos courtesy TraceAir
irt busts” and double handling are major margin killers for grading contractors, but without access to current, accurate topographical data, some waste is inevitable. To combat this, Independent Construction Company, headquartered in Concord, CA, has chosen to leverage technology across its portfolio of projects to
Planning weekly operations used to take a few hours. By adopting drone technology and software, Independent’s foremen are now able to reduce planning time to less than an hour.
36 EQUIPMEN T TODAY | December 2021
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