Case Study

Introduction

OpenSpace is an innovative construction technology platform that automates site documentation through 360° imagery captured during routine site walks. Using AI-powered mapping, these visual records are anchored to digital floor plans, creating a navigable, time-stamped replica of the job site.

To ensure scalability, integration, and user-friendly deployment, OpenSpace partnered with Top Remotely to optimize backend systems, streamline camera onboarding workflows, and support integration with leading construction management tools.

OpenSpace has become a go-to solution for general contractors, real estate developers, and project managers seeking transparency, traceability, and visual documentation across construction timelines.

Challenges

Prior to OpenSpace’s adoption, construction teams struggled with:

• Fragmented site documentation through inconsistent photos taken manually.

• Poor remote collaboration between off-site stakeholders and site crews.

• Delayed issue detection, leading to progress gaps and rework.

• No visual audit trail for validating completed work or defending against claims.

OpenSpace and Top Remotely joined forces to create a system that captured, cataloged, and communicated site conditions in real time—with minimal user input and maximum traceability.

Objectives

The joint deployment effort focused on:

• Automating 360° visual documentation without disrupting field workflows.
• Enabling remote stakeholders to experience site progress virtually.
• Creating a secure, time-stamped visual timeline of the entire build.
• Minimizing project risk by preserving a complete photographic record.

Solutions

Top Remotely helped implement and enhance OpenSpace’s visual tracking system with the following capabilities:

1. 360° Video Walks
   Site personnel wore helmet-mounted cameras (Ricoh Theta, Insta360) during routine inspections. Continuous, unobtrusive video capture ensured full visual coverage.
2. AI-Powered Mapping
   Proprietary SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) algorithms processed video and matched each frame to floor plans—automatically and in real time.
3. TimeSlider Navigation
   Users could scroll through previous captures to visually compare progress or investigate when specific changes occurred—down to individual rooms or hallways.
4. Remote Access & Collaboration
   Developers, architects, or inspectors accessed walkthroughs from anywhere, eliminating the need for frequent site visits.
5. Field Notes & Annotations
   Project managers added notes, tags, and flags to the 360° walkthroughs, creating a collaborative feedback loop for trades and consultants.

Deployment Process

With Top Remotely’s technical guidance, OpenSpace delivered a smooth onboarding experience:

1. Hardware Setup
   Camera kits were deployed and site teams trained on optimal walk paths and recording best practices.
2. Platform Sync & Integration
   Floor plans and site documentation were uploaded to the platform and integrated with Procore, PlanGrid, and Autodesk BIM 360.
3. Baseline Capture
   Initial walkthroughs established a reference point for all future comparisons and quality checks.
4. Team Enablement & Support
   Top Remotely created tutorial modules and held live workshops to onboard general contractors, field engineers, and stakeholders.

Results

After full rollout, OpenSpace’s impact—supported by Top Remotely’s deployment expertise—was significant:

• 70% time savings in photo documentation and reporting.

• 25% reduction in rework by improving trade accountability and field verification.

• Enhanced transparency for investors and owners, reducing change order disputes.

• 40% fewer site visits, thanks to reliable, remote walkthrough capabilities.

Technology Stack

• Computer Vision & SLAM: Proprietary AI models using TensorFlow
  
• Cloud Infrastructure: Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
  
• Frontend: React.js, WebGL for 3D walkthroughs
  
• Mobile App: Native iOS and Android
  
• Integration: APIs with Procore, Autodesk BIM 360, PlanGrid

OpenSpace has revolutionized construction site documentation by fusing wearable technology with AI and cloud scalability. With Top Remotely’s support in integration, onboarding, and customization, OpenSpace became more than just a documentation tool—it became a decision-making engine for construction leaders.

Whether it’s verifying completed work, defending against costly disputes, or keeping off-site stakeholders aligned, OpenSpace’s “Street View for construction” delivers unmatched visibility, accountability, and speed. This case reinforces how data-rich visuals, backed by strong systems integration, can transform the future of real estate development and project management.