Implementation of a drone program can be complex, but the end result is a sustainable, scalable process that drives the value of drone technology and the improvement of your business as a whole.
Below are the eight most critical steps to consider throughout the consideration process prior to implementing a drone program for an enterprise.
1. Discovery – Determine Your Organization’s Needs
Workflows vary significantly across organizations. Each industry has specialized needs; companies that serve niche markets can leverage diverse and interchangeable drone payload solutions to accommodate their operations.
Depending on your needs, your organization may benefit from an integrated modular drone solution with built-in two-way communication, or from a versatile drone like the DJI M30 Series.
Prepare your team for the drone solution discovery process by having them think through the most critical pain points and goals they want to achieve with a drone fleet. If you’re working with a drone specialist, they will be able to understand and align the best drone technology solution with your needs.
2. Identify Funding
While searching for a drone technology solution, it’s best practice to consider what the initial investment will be, as well as the ongoing costs, like long-term pilot training, fleet maintenance, and upgrade costs.
If you’re a government entity, you may qualify for special grants or community partnerships that can help offset some of the initial costs. If you’re a private organization, you may want to conduct a cost-benefit analysis or support your research with case studies from similar organizations within your industry that have seen financial success with a drone program.
3. Review Local & Federal UAV Laws/Regulations
Because drones occupy public airspace, federal and state governments created laws and guidelines to protect the privacy and safety of their citizens. Regulations on drone use vary by state, so it’s important to verify local laws before your organization invests in a drone program.
Licensing is also important—all commercial drone pilots must have a Part 107 license administered by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), but there is also an option for agencies to obtain an FAA Part 91 certificate depending on the type of operations they have.
We recommend you consult with an expert to help decide which option is best for your organization.
4. Select & Purchase Your Drone Equipment
Before you begin searching for a specific solution or drone make, think about the applications and industry needs your organization has.
Some factors to consider during purchase include:
- IP Ratings
- Special Features
- Program or Software Compatibility
- Security & Encryption
- Drone & Pilot Insurance
- Maintenance & Repair Costs
Once you have identified the operational parameters, security needs, and equipment specifications that best suit your organization, you should consider the timeline to get your drone program started. When planning your project, make sure you account for the sales process, lead time, and internal approval time to get your program set up.
Also, if you choose to work with a knowledgeable provider, they may be able to help you find cost-effective alternatives that meet your needs without going over budget.
5. Choose Your Software Solutions
Having clearly defined goals for your drone program can help you identify the appropriate software solution for your organization. There are many services available for enterprises, but some are better suited for specific industries. Drone Deploy, Pix4D, and DJI software solutions are all great platforms that easily integrate with some of the most popular drone models on the market.
6. Staff & Train UAV Pilots
Each pilot must be Part 107 certified and licensed to fly—otherwise, your organization exposes itself to legal fines and penalties. Additionally, all pilots should be trained on how to properly operate the drone to minimize crashes and damages.
Pilots with Part 107 licenses are expected to operate as commercial/civilian UAVs. Here are some of the most important rules to understand and follow:
- Liability/responsibility for any damages falls on individual pilots
- You can only fly during the daytime without a special waiver
- You must obtain permission to fly in B, C, D, and E airspace before each flight
- You must operate under 400’ AGL (Above Ground Level)
- You must have an active visual line of sight of the UAV
Once you know what regulations govern your area of operation, you can better identify what drones and payloads will meet those requirements.
7. Implement Standard Operating Procedures & Continuous Training
Maximize your program’s success by establishing operating procedures. By ensuring your team knows how to begin a flight and use the equipment and software properly, they will be prepared for anything they encounter out in the field.
We recommend following a flight prep checklist; while there are standard procedures you should follow, you can customize the checklist based on your operations.
Additionally, we suggest routine training for your pilots, whether it is in-house, or through a third party as federal and state regulations change frequently and can impact your operations.
8. Fleet Management
Like cars and other equipment, drones have a set lifespan—keep in mind that better maintenance increases the life expectancy of any drone—but you need to factor in eventual replacements into your drone program.
On average, drones last 2-3 years; this number may change based on use, manufacturer updates, and other factors. By keeping track of the date of purchase, the use hours, and maintenance/repairs done on each drone in your fleet, you will avoid downtime in your operations.
Drone Nerds Can Help
Drone Nerds developed a proprietary Always Flying™program to help organizations manage their fleet effortlessly. While researching drones and service providers, we recommend you consider fleet management as a “must-have”.
As part of our suite of business solutions, Drone Nerds offers enterprise maintenance programs designed to keep your fleet in top condition. Our three plans offer insight into what a proper drone fleet maintenance plan looks like, including firmware updates, calibration, component replacement, and so much more.
If you’re ready to take the next step or would like personalized guidance and consultation, contact our team of experts at + 1 (786) 708-7807, or email us at sales@dronenerds.com.
