Curious about which drone mapping software truly delivers? We tested the industry’s major platforms and share what worked for our team, why we made our choices, and key lessons learned. If you’re always on the lookout for better processing tools or want to compare your own workflow, this article breaks down our honest insights for GIS and survey pros.

New drone pilots are flocking to gig platforms, hoping for good pay—only to find themselves doing complex, expensive work for pennies. With big promises and “premium pilot” badges, these platforms skim the profits while pilots shoulder the costs and risks. This article exposes the real math behind drone gigs, the hidden traps for pilots, and why cheap drone work hurts everyone—from individual flyers to industry clients.