In the world of retail and distribution, managing assets efficiently is super important. Big retail stores and distribution centers need regular inspections and repairs. The size and geographic distribution can make this very challenging. The usual way of inspecting buildings takes a lot of time and money. Plus, it can be dangerous. In today's high-interest rate environment, big retailers and distribution center owners are putting more focus on their current assets. With the help of drone imagery & insights, they're able to put more emphasis on maintenance and maximizing the life of their assets
Imagine a Venn diagram with two big circles. In one circle, there's a need for high-quality inspections; on the other, the need to spend less money while doing these inspections for the whole business. Drones are right in the middle of this diagram, offering high-quality pictures taken safely from above the building while keeping workers out of harm’s way. They're also fast and accurate; we can use them for every store, warehouse, and distribution center.
The Challenge of Inspections
Inspecting retail and distribution buildings is a massive job. These places are usually huge, with all kinds of facilities and spaces, from tall warehouses and big parking lots to distribution centers and retail stores. Traditional inspections can’t keep up, which can lead to dangerous situations and risks for the facility.
Why Drones Are Awesome
Now, Enter Drones! These flying machines are changing how we inspect things. They have high-quality cameras and sensors, and they're transforming how big stores and centers take care of their buildings. Here's why drones are the go-to choice:
Efficiency: Drones can cover a lot of ground way faster than humans can. They're small, smart and well-equipped to photograph tricky places or areas that would be tough or unsafe for people.
Cost Savings: Setting up a drone program costs some money at first, but in the long run, it saves a lot. Fewer people are needed, less downtime happens, and there's less chance of things getting damaged, so it's more cost effective.
Safety: Safety is a big deal! Drones remove the need for people to go to high or dangerous places. This makes accidents less likely and keeps everyone following safety rules.
Accuracy: Drones collect super accurate and detailed data. They take high-quality photos, use thermal imaging, and other fancy tech to show exactly how things are doing. This helps find problems early.
Sensors: Drone cameras come in all types from standard photographs to multi-spectral and thermal cameras. Thermal imagery makes it possible to see water trapped beneath roofing membranes, or spot where heat or air are escaping from windows and doors.
Data Integration: Drone data can easily be put into systems that manage assets. This makes the whole inspecting process simpler, so it's easier to keep track of how things are doing over time and plan for repairs.
Consistency: Inspecting things isn't a one-time thing; it happens regularly. Drones can do the same inspections again and again, creating a record that can be used and reviewed as often as needed.
Real-Life Benefits
Using drones for inspecting assets in retail and distribution isn't just a cool idea; it really works. Businesses around the world are already seeing the advantages of this technology. For example, a drone can inspect a building for damage from hail in about half an hour.
Check out the webinar on-demand Taking Property Inspection to New Heights: Drones for Distributed Facilities