There are two categories of drone software: Drone simulation software, which helps you learn how to operate unmanned aerial vehicles; and drone operation software that enables advanced features primarily for commercial use cases. If you’re using a drone for business, you may want to consider both.
Flight Training Simulation Software
Drone flight simulation software is a low-risk way to learn how to fly a drone. Drone parts can be expensive, and operating one without knowing what you’re doing is dangerous.
By using simulation software, you can learn the ins and outs of flying an unmanned aircraft without putting yourself, others, and your costly drone at risk. It will enable you to practice all the necessary skills from the safety of your office or home.
Sophisticated drone simulation software will include a controller for your computer that matches the radio controller you use to fly the actual drone. This will help you practice manipulating the controls as you learn the nuances of your chosen craft’s operation.
DJI offers a handful of training simulations for businesses in the construction and energy sectors.
3D Mapping Software
3D mapping is one of the most common uses for drones in the enterprise sector. Construction companies use 3D scanning data to compile accurate land surveys ahead of big projects. Insurance companies use drones to scan accident and disaster scenes to help them understand what happened. Farmers can use drones, too, to map their crops and monitor growth from above.
Companies like DJI, SkyBrowse, and Pix4D offer a variety of drone software to help you gather the data you need.
Fleet Management Software
With enterprise fleet management software, you can monitor and maintain several drones and their pilots. Companies that operate teams of drone pilots use this software to organize team operations and maintain drone operations such as flight times and service records.
Fleet management drone software allows you to create missions plans for your team and gives you a live view of drone telemetry data, including the camera view. This software can also compile the media from multiple drones into one convenient content library.
Automated Operation
3D mapping and fleet management software have one thing in common: you can use them to create automated routes for your drone to follow. With these applications, you can program your drone to follow specific routes and track between waypoints, or you can set it to pass back and forth over a defined area.