Tired of Out-of-Date, One-Way Imagery?
Google Earth is great for public reference maps, but it falls short on active jobsites that change every day. If you're looking for a construction Google Earth alternative that keeps pace with field realities, OverSite by SitePhotos delivers the 'current', centimeter-grade context missing from generic mapping apps.
The Shortcomings of Google Earth on a Construction Site
| Limitation | Impact on Construction Teams |
|---|---|
| Static satellite tiles updated every few months or years | No visibility into current site conditions, personnel can struggle to orient themselves onsite. |
| No built-in version control | Impossible to track design iterations or "as-built" milestones. Are team members using the latest designs? |
| Imagery not tightly georeferenced | Imagery can drift several meters from true location, causing doubts in planning activities. |
| Minimal collaboration features | Field crews still rely on email chains and USB sticks to share information |
What Do Prime Contractors Require in a Map Based Software Platform?
1. Visual, Location-Based Data
- Construction personnel are visual learners; information should be presented in a visual format allowing teams to quickly understand and retain the information presented.
- Information should be attached to a location on the map. Most data points on large Civil projects have a component of location. This can become an excellent method to organize data.
2. Clear and geolocated image placement
- Level of detail, orthomosaics need to have a resolution allowing the team to 'count 2x4 on the ground,' meaning each pixel needs represent a maximum of one inch on the ground.
- Comparing previous flights or design linework's require all images to be precisely georeferenced. Standard sources like Google Earth can be off by 10 feet or more, which is unacceptable for construction accuracy.
3. Layers with version control
- Construction sites are in a state of change. KML/KMZ Google Earths native files, are typically stored on the users computer, resulting in difficulties in determining if they are using the latest design files.
- A centralized system with version control ensures the team always works from the latest approved drawings and data layers. Team members can choose what layers are displayed to visualize construction conflicts
4. Measurement & Analysis Tools
- Built-in tools to measure distances, calculate areas/volumes, or overlay design vs. as-built conditions save time and reduce the need for external software.
5. User Access & Permissions
- Role-based access controls are critical to protect sensitive data while allowing subcontractors, consultants, and clients to view only what's relevant to them.
6. Integration with Design and Construction Tools
- Compatibility with CAD/BIM models, scheduling software, and field apps reduces duplication of effort and ensures all stakeholders are working from the same source of truth.
OverSite by SitePhotos: Built for Heavy Civil & Infrastructure Projects
1. Current Geolocated Jobsite Imagery
- Drones can capture current site progression and display as a map.
- Drone and smartphone photos snap to surveyed control points, giving sub-inch accuracy.
- Overlay design files and see linework exactly where in relation to current site, no guessing.
2. Version Control for Every Layer
- Track revisions of CADD drawings (plan view), visually compare to see changes and understand scope changes.
- Compare any two versions to show progress, dispute claims, or plan next steps.
3. Schedule-Aware "Time-Slider"
- Review past image layers to visualize changes to cut-and-fill's, pipe installation, or rail alignment over time.
4. One-Click Field Uploads
- Mobile allows photos to be automatically geotagged to the server. No manual folder sorting.
- Entire team can see them on the OverSite platform instantly, accessible by location, date and user.
5. Measurement & Takeoff Tools Built In
- Draw lengths, areas, cross-sections or calculate volumes directly on high-resolution imagery. Creating a visual record for progress billings.
- Maintain a record of passed takeoffs to compare planned activities to as-built, ensuring realization of revenue on all work performed.
6. Secure Cloud
- A Visual Source of Truth with ongoing backups.
- AES-256 encryption keeps data safe; something public map platforms can't guarantee.
How SitePhotos Compares to Other Construction Mapping Software
| Feature | Google Earth | DroneDeploy | Nearmap | SitePhotos |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live field photo uploads | ❌ | ✔️ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Version-controlled overlays | ❌ | Limited | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Sub-inch geolocation | ❌ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Civil-specific measurement tools | ❌ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Integrated progress billing logs | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Record daily crew activity | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Tracks earned manhours vs actual | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Issue (NCR) tracking | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✔️ |
Ready to See SitePhotos in Action?
Request a demo today and discover why leading contractors choose SitePhotos as their go-to construction mapping platform—a true Google Earth alternative built for boots-on-the-ground progress.