01/06/2026
The survey method you pick determines whether your Scan-to-BIM deliverable is usable.
Most project owners let the surveyor choose. That's a mistake — because the method shapes your budget, timeline, and whether the processing team can actually model from the data.
𝗟𝗶𝗗𝗔𝗥 — the professional standard for interiors:
- 2-6mm accuracy at typical scanning distances
- Captures white walls, polished floors, glass with the same precision as textured brick
- Output: LAS, LAZ, E57, RCP — direct input for Scan-to-CAD/BIM
- Standard for renovation, permit, and coordination projects
𝗣𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗿𝘆 — right tool, wrong job for interiors:- Relies on surface texture to match points across images
- Smooth surfaces (painted walls, glass, polished floors) produce holes, noise, geometric drift
- 1-3mm accuracy is possible — but only in ideal conditions with high overlap and good GCPs
- Cheaper upfront, often more expensive after processing remediation
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗽𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝘀: textured heritage facades, archaeological sites, exterior elevations where 10-20mm tolerance is acceptable, surfaces a drone can reach that ground-based LiDAR cannot.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗿: Define the end deliverable first. If you need DWG floor plans, sections, and elevations — or an IFC at LOD 200 — specify LiDAR in LAS/LAZ/E57 with verified registration accuracy. If the surveyor proposes photogrammetry for interior work, ask: has the output been tested against a control check? What is the reported accuracy?
Full breakdown with cost considerations, speed on site, and when each method is the right call:
https://www.enginyring.com/en/blog/photogrammetry-vs-lidar-which-survey-method-is-right-for-your-project
