Point Cloud Surveys for Buildings, Sites and Assets
High-density 3D laser scan data for measurement, design, coordination, modelling and remote site review.
Measurable 3D Site Data for Technical Project Teams
A point cloud survey captures the physical geometry of a building, site or asset as millions of measured points in 3D space. It gives architects, engineers, builders, asset owners and consultants a detailed digital record of existing conditions that can be used for measurement, review, CAD drafting, BIM modelling and coordination.
3D Walkabout provides point cloud surveys using professional 3D laser scanning equipment. We capture the required environment, register the scan data and deliver a clean point cloud dataset that your team can use directly or convert into drawings, models and other project outputs.
Point cloud surveys are useful when you need accurate existing-condition data but do not necessarily need all information converted into CAD or BIM immediately. The dataset can be retained, reviewed and used again as new project questions arise.
WHY CHOOSE A POINT CLOUD SURVEY
Why Choose a Point Cloud Survey?
Capture Once, Use Many Times
A reusable digital record supporting design, modelling, measurement and future documentation.
Measure Remotely
Inspect and measure areas without returning to site for every question.
Support CAD and BIM Workflows
Used to create floor plans, elevations, sections, RCPs and Revit models.
Reduce Site Assumptions
Work from measured spatial data instead of old drawings or selective manual measurements.
WHAT CAN BE CAPTURES
What Can Be Captured?
The key advantage is flexibility. The point cloud can be used as raw reference data or as the foundation for more detailed deliverables like CAD drawings, BIM models or asset documentation.
COMMON DELIVERABLES
Common Deliverables
Registered Point Cloud
Processed and aligned from multiple scan positions into a single measurable dataset.
Colourised Point Cloud
Where suitable, colour information added to make visual interpretation easier.
Point Cloud Viewer Files
Files prepared for compatible viewing and measurement workflows.
CAD Drawings From Point Cloud
Floor plans, elevations, sections and RCPs drafted from the point cloud data.
BIM Models From Point Cloud
Converted into Revit or BIM models at an agreed level of detail.
WHY POINT CLOUDS BEFORE DESIGN
Why Point Cloud Surveys Are Useful Before Design and Construction
This is especially useful on complex sites where questions arise after the survey. Instead of sending someone back to site to check a height, clearance or services route, the team may be able to answer the question from the point cloud.
For refurbishment, fitout, infrastructure, industrial and asset management projects, this reduces uncertainty and helps teams make better decisions from shared data.
BENEFITS
Benefits of Point Cloud Surveys
High-density 3D data: Capture the real-world geometry of buildings, sites and assets.
Reusable survey record: Keep the dataset for future drawings, models and measurements.
Supports remote review: Inspect and measure conditions without repeated site visits.
Flexible downstream use: Convert to CAD, BIM, Revit, elevations, sections or asset documentation.
Good for complex environments: Capture irregular buildings, plant areas, industrial sites and façades.
Reduces reliance on old drawings: Work from current scan data.
Supports multi-disciplinary teams: Share the same measured dataset across consultants.
Useful for verification: Compare existing or installed conditions against design intent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a point cloud survey?
A point cloud survey is a 3D survey that captures millions of measured points across a building, site or asset using laser scanning.
What is a point cloud used for?
Point clouds are used for measurement, design reference, CAD drafting, BIM modelling, site verification, asset documentation and remote review.
Is a point cloud the same as a BIM model?
No. A point cloud is measured scan data. A BIM model is a structured digital model created from that data or other sources.
Can you create CAD drawings from a point cloud?
Yes. Floor plans, elevations, sections, RCPs and other CAD drawings can be created from point cloud data.
Can you create Revit models from point clouds?
Yes. Point cloud data can be converted into Revit or BIM models at an agreed level of detail.
What file formats are available?
Formats depend on the software workflow required. We can discuss suitable point cloud formats before delivery.
Can point clouds be colourised?
Yes, where captured and processed appropriately, point clouds can include colour information to make interpretation easier.
Can I measure from the point cloud?
Yes, with suitable software, point clouds can be used for measurement and review.
Are point cloud surveys suitable for large sites?
Yes. Point cloud surveys can be scaled for buildings, industrial sites, campuses, infrastructure and multi-site portfolios.
Do I need CAD or BIM as well?
Not always. Some teams work directly from the point cloud, while others prefer CAD or BIM deliverables. The best option depends on your workflow.
