Different Needs, Different Approaches
While the core 3D laser scanning technology is the same, commercial and residential projects have distinct characteristics that affect approach, equipment selection, deliverables, and pricing. Understanding these differences helps you find the right provider and set appropriate expectations.
Commercial vs. Residential Comparison
Here's how commercial and residential 3D scanning typically differ:
| Factor | Commercial Scanning | Residential Scanning |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Size | 5,000 - 500,000+ sq ft | 1,000 - 5,000 sq ft |
| Complexity | High (MEP systems, multiple floors) | Low to moderate (standard construction) |
| Common Clients | Architects, contractors, facility managers | Homeowners, residential contractors |
| Deliverables | Point clouds, BIM models, detailed CAD | Floor plans, basic measurements |
| Scheduling | Work around business operations | Flexible homeowner scheduling |
| Equipment | Professional-grade terrestrial scanners | May include consumer-grade options |
| Price per Sq Ft | Lower (economies of scale) | Higher (smaller projects) |
| Total Investment | Higher (larger scope) | Lower (smaller scope) |
Commercial 3D Scanning Characteristics
Commercial scanning projects typically involve:
- Larger scale: Office buildings, warehouses, retail spaces, industrial facilities
- Complex systems: MEP infrastructure, specialized equipment, multi-story layouts
- Multiple stakeholders: Architects, engineers, contractors, facility managers
- BIM integration: Data often feeds into larger design and construction workflows
- Scheduling constraints: Must work around business operations and minimize disruption
- Higher accuracy requirements: Coordination with construction and design demands precision
- Professional deliverables: CAD drawings, BIM models, detailed documentation
Residential 3D Scanning Characteristics
Residential scanning projects typically involve:
- Smaller scale: Single-family homes, condos, townhouses
- Simpler systems: Standard residential construction, fewer MEP complexities
- Individual clients: Homeowners, residential contractors, real estate professionals
- Simpler deliverables: Often just floor plans, square footage, and basic measurements
- Flexible scheduling: Easier to arrange access around homeowner availability
- Lower accuracy requirements: Standard accuracy is usually sufficient
- Cost sensitivity: Residential clients often have tighter budgets
Our Commercial Focus
Sonoran 3D Scanning focuses exclusively on commercial and industrial projects. This specialization allows us to develop deep expertise in the unique challenges of commercial spaces: complex MEP systems, BIM workflows, construction coordination, and facility management requirements.
By focusing on commercial work, we invest in professional-grade equipment, maintain expertise in commercial software workflows, and develop processes optimized for commercial client needs. This specialization means we're not the right fit for residential projects, but it ensures commercial clients receive expert service tailored to their specific requirements.
Choosing the Right Provider
When selecting a scanning provider, look for one with experience in your project type:
• For commercial projects: Choose a provider with commercial experience, professional equipment, and capabilities for your required deliverables (BIM, detailed CAD, etc.)
• For residential projects: Look for providers who serve the residential market and can work within residential budgets and timelines
A provider focused on commercial work may be overqualified (and overpriced) for simple residential projects. Conversely, a residential-focused provider may lack the equipment, software, or expertise for complex commercial requirements.