OpenSpace - Detailed Review
Business Tools
OpenSpace - Detailed Review Contents
Add a header to begin generating the table of contents
OpenSpace - Product Overview
OpenSpace Overview
OpenSpace is a leading AI-driven solution in the business tools category, specifically focused on reality capture and analytics for the construction industry.Primary Function
OpenSpace’s primary function is to provide a comprehensive visual record of construction sites. This is achieved through its Spatial AI technology, which combines computer vision, 3D reconstruction, and machine learning to capture, align, and analyze images of the site. This process helps in verifying work-in-place, simplifying dispute resolution, and keeping teams accountable.Target Audience
The target audience for OpenSpace includes construction companies, project managers, architects, and other professionals involved in the construction industry. Additionally, it serves real estate developers, facility managers, architects, engineers, and even insurance companies and claims adjusters who can benefit from its documentation and tracking capabilities.Key Features
Reality Capture
OpenSpace Capture allows users to document their construction site quickly and efficiently using 360° cameras attached to hard hats or drones. This captures 360° video, photos, and even 3D LiDAR scans, which are then mapped to floor plans and BIM models with minimal extra labor and no infrastructure requirements.Spatial AI and Computer Vision
The Spatial AI engine uses computer vision to automatically align images into a single integrated scene, recognize and label key features, and map them to floor plans. It also employs 3D reconstruction to locate features in space and recreate 3D environments.SLAM and Machine Learning
OpenSpace utilizes Simultaneous Location and Mapping (SLAM) to estimate the path of the walker on a floor plan, and machine learning algorithms to make the AI smarter with each capture, improving alignment and mapping accuracy over time.Semantic Segmentation and Progress Tracking
The technology includes semantic segmentation to classify pixels into logical segments, which can be tracked and counted. This enables progress tracking, allowing users to quantify image-based metrics over time and maintain trade coordination and benchmark productivity.Field Notes and Integrations
OpenSpace offers a Field Notes feature for robust visual communication among project team members. It also has powerful integrations and a mobile app that make it easy to document and share jobsite information.Big Data Visualization
The platform provides big data visualization, rendering visual representations of large, complex datasets to make them easier to digest and understand. This helps in delivering insights and analytics from the captured data.Conclusion
Overall, OpenSpace streamlines construction documentation, enhances project management, and improves communication and decision-making processes within the construction industry. OpenSpace - User Interface and Experience
The User Interface of OpenSpace
The user interface of OpenSpace, an AI-driven construction tech product, is designed with a strong focus on ease of use and efficiency, particularly for construction site management.
Ease of Use
OpenSpace is notable for its simplicity and user-friendly design. Here are some key features that contribute to its ease of use:
- Labor-Free Operation: Users can attach a 360° camera to their hard hat or a drone and continue their routine site walk as normal. The proprietary AI algorithm handles the rest, transforming raw video data into a complete, easy-to-navigate 360° map of the site.
- Mobile App: The OpenSpace mobile app is intuitive, allowing users to access frequently used features like Field Notes and sheets through a new bottom navigation bar. This bar enables quick jumps to essential functions, making on-site tasks more efficient.
- Streamlined Notifications: Mobile push notifications are integrated to streamline coordination, alerting users when new captures are available or when Field Notes are assigned.
User Interface Features
Several features enhance the user experience:
- Capture Paths: An intuitive way to navigate through 360° images using modern 3D graphics that overlay walk paths onto the images. This helps users quickly find points of interest within a capture.
- Project Home Screen: This feature allows users to view active sheets, recent captures, and recent Field Notes all in one easy-to-find location, making project management more organized.
- Sheet Improvements: Users can quickly locate 360° images, Field Notes, and 3D scans at specific locations and times, which is crucial for documenting and tracking project progress.
- Field Notes Zones: Users can define zones within their project to better organize, filter, and report on Field Notes associated with specific areas. This feature enhances data organization and retrieval.
- Overhead Captures: Images taken above head level are identified within a capture, making it easy to view captures that are above the ceiling or at higher-than-typical capture heights.
Overall User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the automated and seamless integration of data capture and analysis:
- Visual Time Machine: OpenSpace allows users to visit any point in time through an interactive 360° map of the site, enabling them to zoom in and explore every detail of the project’s progress.
- Integration with Other Tools: OpenSpace has an embedded experience with full functionality within platforms like Procore, allowing users to view and manage their projects without leaving the Procore environment.
In summary, OpenSpace’s user interface is designed to be straightforward, efficient, and highly accessible, making it easier for construction teams to document, manage, and analyze their projects with minimal additional labor.
OpenSpace - Key Features and Functionality
OpenSpace Overview
OpenSpace is a comprehensive AI-driven construction technology that offers several key features to streamline and enhance construction project management. Here are the main features and how they work:360° Reality Capture
OpenSpace allows users to capture 360° videos and photos of job sites, which can be viewed virtually. This feature enables teams to take virtual walkthroughs of the site in near real-time, facilitating remote monitoring and collaboration.Field Notes
Field Notes is a tool that lets project team members record and notify each other about issues or important items on the site. These notes can be associated with specific locations and times, making it easier to track and address problems promptly. Field Notes can also be exported to other platforms like BIM 360, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC), and Revizto, ensuring seamless communication between field and office teams.Split View and BIM Compare
The Split View feature allows users to compare job site progress between two different capture dates side by side. This helps in monitoring progress and identifying any changes or issues over time. The BIM Compare feature enables teams to compare the BIM model with the actual job site conditions side by side, which is crucial for spotting discrepancies and ensuring that the construction aligns with the design intent.Multi-Floor and Overhead Captures
For multi-floor projects, OpenSpace introduces a “Next sheet” button that simplifies the process of transferring captures between floors during capture walks. Additionally, overhead images taken from ceilings or other high locations are easily accessible on sheets and the OpenSpace mini-map, making it convenient to view captures from various heights.Flexible 360° Capture Management
Users can upload files directly from a camera or SD card reader to the web, in addition to using the OpenSpace app. This flexibility allows for easier management of captures. Admins also have the capability to delete captures through the admin console.Enhanced User Management and Integration
OpenSpace supports simultaneous syncing with various construction management tools such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC), BIM 360, PlanGrid, and Revizto. This integration allows for importing sheets and users from Procore, exporting Field Notes to BIM 360 and ACC, and importing multiple models from ACC, among other functionalities. This streamlines collaboration and data management across different platforms.Mobile Features
The mobile app has been enhanced with a new bottom navigation bar that provides quick access to frequently used features like Field Notes and sheets. A new slider allows users to quickly view different points in time for a location. Mobile push notifications streamline coordination by alerting users when new captures are available or when Field Notes are assigned.Capture Paths and Project Home Screen
Capture paths use modern 3D graphics to overlay walk paths onto 360° images, making it intuitive to find points of interest in a capture. The project home screen provides a centralized view of active sheets, recent captures, and recent Field Notes, making it easier to access relevant data quickly.Field Notes Zones
Users can define zones within their project to better organize, filter, and report on Field Notes associated with specific areas. This feature helps in managing and tracking issues more efficiently.AI-Powered Analytics
OpenSpace leverages AI to analyze the captured data, providing insights such as usage tracking, coverage gap identification, and trend analysis through the OpenSpace Usage API. This API allows users to pull capture data into business intelligence tools like PowerBI, enhancing data-driven decision-making.Revizto Integration
The integration with Revizto enables teams to create a single source of truth for their projects by seamlessly bringing in OpenSpace 360° video and images into Revizto. This includes syncing Field Notes to Revizto Issues and maintaining BIM coordinates, which improves coordination between Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and field teams.Conclusion
These features collectively enhance project coordination, reduce the risk of errors, and improve the efficiency of construction projects by leveraging AI and integrating with various construction management tools. OpenSpace - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating the Performance and Accuracy of OpenSpace
Performance
OpenSpace’s technology is built on a foundation of computer vision, AI, and data visualization, which enables it to perform several critical functions efficiently:- Speed and Efficiency: OpenSpace can align images to floor plans in just 15 minutes on average after capture, significantly speeding up the site documentation process compared to traditional methods.
- Automated Site Documentation: The system uses Simultaneous Location and Mapping (SLAM) and 3D reconstruction to create a detailed 3D point cloud, mapping features in space accurately. This process is repeated thousands of times across a full 360° video capture, ensuring a rich and accurate visual representation of the captured environment.
- Resource Optimization: By providing real-time insights, OpenSpace helps in critical path analysis and resource optimization, directly impacting financial performance and timeline adherence.
Accuracy
The accuracy of OpenSpace is enhanced through several features:- AI-Powered Alignment: The Spatial AI engine automatically aligns images to the floor plan, reducing the potential for human error associated with manual data collection. This alignment is achieved through computer vision and machine learning algorithms that learn from each capture and walk track.
- BIM Integration: OpenSpace integrates seamlessly with Building Information Models (BIM), allowing for a side-by-side comparison of actual site conditions with the model. This helps in identifying and resolving conflicts before they cause delays.
- Detailed Documentation: The system generates a Google Street View-style video of the project, enabling users to carefully inspect the site for discrepancies and issues from any location.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While OpenSpace offers significant advantages, there are a few areas to consider:- Similar Looking Spaces: There is an ongoing test to determine the limitations of automatically pinning mobile photos to floor plans, especially in projects with similar looking spaces. Guidance and best practices will be provided once this feature is fully rolled out.
- Internet Connectivity: Although OpenSpace can capture data without an internet connection, ensuring continuous internet access can enhance the real-time data synchronization and collaboration features.
- User Training and Adoption: While the system is reported to be easy to learn, proper configuration and clear permission structures are crucial for maximizing its benefits. Ensuring all team members are well-versed in using the platform can take some time and effort.
Real-World Impact
The effectiveness of OpenSpace is evident in real-world applications:- Construction teams using OpenSpace report 40% fewer delays and 25% lower rework costs. This is attributed to the ability to spot potential issues early, reduce expensive rework, and maintain a single source of truth through integrated BIM models and site documentation.
- Case studies, such as U.S. Engineering, highlight how OpenSpace helps in mitigating risk, improving efficiency, and reducing costs by providing detailed and accurate documentation of site conditions.
OpenSpace - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure of OpenSpace
The pricing structure of OpenSpace, a tool for construction jobsite documentation, is based on several key factors and offers various options to cater to different needs.
Subscription Model
OpenSpace operates on an annual subscription model, where the price is calculated based on the annual construction volume (ACV) and the specific products needed.
Products and Pricing
- OpenSpace Capture: This product is priced based on the ACV, with a specific rate applied. It allows for the full documentation of jobsites using photo and video captures.
- OpenSpace Track: This product has a different rate and is also based on ACV. It provides additional tracking features.
Volume and Bundling Discounts
Customers can benefit from volume and bundling discounts by including more products, projects, and ACV in their subscription upfront. This leads to cost savings and efficiency gains.
Subscription Flexibility
- Single Project or Multiple Projects: Subscriptions can support either a single project or multiple projects. Adding more projects and ACV generally results in cost efficiencies.
- Multi-Year Subscriptions: OpenSpace offers multi-year subscriptions for OpenSpace Capture.
- Adding Projects or Products Later: Users can add ACV to their OpenSpace Capture subscription or add OpenSpace Track trackers at any time. These additions are prorated and co-terminated with the original contract.
Features Across Plans
- Unlimited Project Members: All plans allow for unlimited project members, enhancing collaboration.
- Efficient Integrations: Integrations with tools like Procore and Autodesk Construction Cloud are available to avoid double entry.
- Ongoing Support: Free technical support is provided for all team members.
- Easy Onboarding: The onboarding process is straightforward, requiring little to no training for new team members.
- Security: OpenSpace follows regulatory requirements and best practices to safeguard data.
Free Option: OpenSpace Basic
OpenSpace offers a free version called OpenSpace Basic, which is the industry’s first completely free 360° video capture solution for construction. This version allows builders to create a complete, interactive digital replica of a jobsite by snapping a 360° camera to their hardhat and walking the site. It includes features like unlimited Field Notes and is ideal for small-scale use or as a trial before committing to a paid contract.
Summary
In summary, OpenSpace provides flexible pricing based on construction volume and the products needed, with options for single or multi-year subscriptions, and a free version for basic needs.
OpenSpace - Integration and Compatibility
OpenSpace Overview
OpenSpace, an AI-driven documentation solution, integrates seamlessly with various tools and is compatible across a range of devices, making it a versatile tool for construction and project management.
Integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud
One of the key integrations of OpenSpace is with Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC). This integration allows users to automatically attach visual references and precise locations to Issues or RFIs within the Autodesk platform. This enhances transparency and simplifies collaboration among multiple stakeholders. To enable this integration, users need to connect their Autodesk account to OpenSpace, install the OpenSpace app on their ACC account, and ensure the app is installed on every ACC account they wish to integrate.
Mobile Device Compatibility
OpenSpace offers a mobile app that is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. For iOS devices, it is recommended to use models released in 2020 or later, running iOS 15.5 or later. Pro iPhones, which are LiDAR-enabled, provide additional features such as 3D scanning with two-inch measurement accuracy. For Android devices, Samsung and Google devices running or supporting Android 11 are recommended, though other brands are not guaranteed to work reliably.
Mobile App Features
The OpenSpace mobile app allows users to capture 360° videos and photos, as well as mobile phone stills, to enrich field notes. It also features a QuickConnect wizard for syncing 360° cameras to smartphones or tablets, a Capture Coverage Heatmap to plan capture paths, and background uploads that start when an internet connection is found. This makes it easy to document job sites and share updates in real-time.
Integration into Existing Processes
OpenSpace can be integrated into existing construction processes, as demonstrated by Suffolk Construction’s nationwide rollout. This integration helps in managing jobs with automated 360 photos, enhancing collaboration between construction teams and trade partners, and increasing transparency and production onsite through progress tracking.
Conclusion
In summary, OpenSpace integrates well with Autodesk Construction Cloud and is compatible with a range of mobile devices, making it a flexible and effective tool for documenting and managing construction projects.
OpenSpace - Customer Support and Resources
Support Options
Standard Support
Response Time
Response and Downtime Credits
Additional Resources
Support and Availability Policy
Contact Support
Partner Program Resources
By leveraging these support options and resources, customers can ensure they receive the assistance they need to use OpenSpace’s services effectively.
OpenSpace - Pros and Cons
Advantages of OpenSpace
OpenSpace offers several significant advantages that make it a valuable tool in the construction and project management sector:Efficiency and Speed
OpenSpace significantly enhances time efficiency by allowing users to document construction sites quickly and easily. The platform’s Spatial AI engine maps photos to project plans automatically, providing a complete, as-built record of the project in about 15 minutes, rather than hours or days.Comprehensive Documentation
The tool provides a detailed and accurate visual documentation of the construction site from preconstruction to handover and operation. This includes features like BIM Compare and Split View, which help in verifying work-in-place, improving coordination, and reducing risks.Automated Progress Tracking
OpenSpace Track uses computer vision and machine learning to recognize, track, and quantify work-in-place, automating manual progress tracking. This helps in comparing work completed against the schedule, reducing delays, increasing productivity, and staying on budget.Enhanced Collaboration and Communication
The platform offers tools like Field Notes, which facilitate easy communication of changes, documentation of QA/QC, and streamlining of punch lists and RFIs. This ensures seamless collaboration both on the jobsite and in the office.Integration with Project Management Software
OpenSpace integrates well with various project management platforms, delivering streamlined workflows and enhancing project transparency and coordination.User-Friendly Interface
The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for construction professionals to use and benefit from its features.Disadvantages of OpenSpace
While OpenSpace offers many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:Cost
OpenSpace Track is sold as an add-on to the OpenSpace Capture subscription license, which may add to the overall cost. The pricing is based on the trackers and projects, which could be a financial consideration for some users.Limited Advanced BIM Capabilities
Compared to other platforms like Avvir, OpenSpace may not offer as advanced capabilities for accurate as-built verification, data analysis, and BIM integration. Avvir uses coordinated BIM models more extensively, which might be a preference for some VDC departments and general contractors.Dependence on Technology
The effectiveness of OpenSpace relies heavily on the accuracy of its AI and computer vision technologies. Any issues with these technologies could impact the reliability of the data and insights provided.Learning Curve
While the interface is user-friendly, there may still be a learning curve for some users, especially those who are not familiar with AI-driven construction tools. OpenSpace offers support and training resources, but initial adoption could take some time. In summary, OpenSpace is a powerful tool that significantly enhances efficiency, documentation, and collaboration in construction projects. However, it may come with additional costs, and some users might find its BIM capabilities less advanced compared to other platforms. OpenSpace - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing OpenSpace to its competitors in the AI-driven construction and reality capture sector, several key features and differences stand out.
Unique Features of OpenSpace
- Speed and Automation: OpenSpace is known for its rapid capture and processing capabilities, allowing users to view images in about 15 minutes, which is significantly faster than many competitors. Its Spatial AI engine automatically maps photos to project plans, streamlining the documentation process.
- Comprehensive Integrations: OpenSpace integrates seamlessly with various project management software such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC), BIM 360, PlanGrid, and Revizto. This allows for simultaneous syncing and the export of Field Notes, issues, and other data across different platforms.
- Enhanced User Management and Capture Tools: OpenSpace offers advanced user management controls, flexible 360° capture management, and features like Quick Access to Overhead Captures and Seamless Multi-Floor Captures. These tools are particularly beneficial for large-scale and multi-floor projects.
- Field Notes and Coordination: The platform includes robust Field Notes features, allowing users to define zones, organize, filter, and report on notes associated with specific areas. Mobile push notifications and improved mobile navigation also enhance coordination and issue resolution.
Competitors and Alternatives
Cupix
- Cupix provides a 3D spatial digital twin platform, focusing on construction and facility management. While it offers similar reality capture capabilities, Cupix’s main strength lies in its detailed 3D modeling and spatial analysis, which might be more suited for projects requiring detailed spatial data.
Buildots
- Buildots offers a data-driven construction and project management platform with a strong focus on progress tracking and work planning. It provides a comprehensive view of site data but lacks the extensive integration capabilities and rapid capture processing that OpenSpace offers.
Matterport
- Matterport is known for its 3D reality capture technology, often used in real estate and construction. While it provides detailed 3D models, it may not have the same level of integration with construction project management software as OpenSpace does.
HoloBuilder
- HoloBuilder, now part of Faro Technologies, offers reality-capturing solutions for progress documentation and construction project management. It allows virtual site visits but may not match OpenSpace’s speed and automation in capturing and processing site data.
StructionSite
- StructionSite creates digital worksite models through cameras, providing access to virtual job sites. However, it does not have the same breadth of integrations or the advanced AI-driven analytics that OpenSpace provides.
FARO Sphere XG
- FARO Sphere XG is a cloud-based platform for managing 3D scans, 360-degree photos, and 3D models. It is more focused on centralized collaborative experiences and 4D progress management, which could be beneficial for projects requiring detailed 3D data management but may not offer the same level of construction-specific workflow integrations as OpenSpace.
Conclusion
OpenSpace stands out with its rapid capture and processing, extensive integrations with popular construction software, and advanced user management and coordination tools. While competitors like Cupix, Buildots, and Matterport offer strong alternatives in specific areas such as 3D modeling and data-driven project management, OpenSpace’s comprehensive suite of features makes it a strong choice for large-scale construction projects that require efficient and integrated workflows.
OpenSpace - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about OpenSpace
What is OpenSpace?
OpenSpace is a platform that visually documents construction jobsites using 360° reality capture and AI-powered analytics. It generates Google Street-style views of the jobsite, requiring minimal extra labor and no infrastructure. Users simply attach a 360° camera to their hard hat or drone and use the OpenSpace app to capture the site.How do I set up a project in OpenSpace?
To set up a project, you need to upload your floor plans to the OpenSpace platform. If you are using Building Information Modeling (BIM), you can also upload your BIM model to track actual progress against the model. Additional resources, such as free on-demand courses at OpenSpace Academy, are available to help with the setup process.How much does OpenSpace cost?
The cost of an OpenSpace subscription is based on the products you need and your annual construction volume (ACV). The price is calculated by multiplying your ACV by a rate for OpenSpace Capture and a different rate for OpenSpace Track. Volume and bundling discounts are available, providing cost savings when you include more products, projects, and ACV in your subscription.Can I purchase OpenSpace for a single project?
Yes, you can purchase an OpenSpace subscription for one project or multiple projects. Most customers find cost efficiencies by adding more projects and ACV to their subscription contract. OpenSpace also offers multi-year subscriptions for added flexibility.How do I capture data using OpenSpace?
Data capture with OpenSpace is straightforward. You attach a 360° camera to your hard hat or drone and walk the site as you normally would. The OpenSpace app and AI algorithm handle the rest, automating the process of generating detailed site documentation. Your existing field team can perform the captures with little to no extra work.Can I add projects or products to my subscription later?
Yes, you can add more ACV to your OpenSpace Capture subscription or add OpenSpace Track trackers at any time. These additions will be prorated and co-terminated with your original contract.How does OpenSpace integrate with other construction tools?
OpenSpace integrates seamlessly with various construction tools such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC), BIM 360, PlanGrid, and Revizto. This allows for simultaneous syncing, importing sheets and users, exporting Field Notes, and more, enhancing collaboration and reducing double entry.What kind of support does OpenSpace offer?
OpenSpace provides comprehensive support, including a dedicated Onboarding Manager for initial setup and training, a Customer Success Manager to help maximize ROI, and access to free on-demand training courses at OpenSpace Academy. Additionally, free technical support is available for all team members.How secure is the data stored in OpenSpace?
OpenSpace follows regulatory requirements and best practices to safeguard your data. The platform ensures that your construction site documentation and other data are securely stored and protected.Can OpenSpace be used by a third party to capture the site?
While most customers use their existing field teams to capture the site, OpenSpace can provide a trained and properly insured individual to capture the site in select markets if needed. You can contact OpenSpace for more information on this service.How easy is it to roll out OpenSpace at scale?
OpenSpace is built to be user-friendly and reliable, making it easy to roll out at scale. The platform offers professional services, including dedicated onboarding and customer success managers, as well as training resources through OpenSpace Academy, to ensure smooth adoption and maximum value from the products.