You probably have mapped vast amounts of square meters and the delivery of those indoor spaces at the highest quality is extremely important to us and our customers. That's why we at NavVis have developed, and now want to share with you, a foolproof Instance Quality Assurance (IQA) process. Enjoy, make your instances rock, and be sure to download the IQA downloadable checklist!
What is Quality Assurance in the NavVis context?
The core of the Instance Quality Assurance (IQA) is to maintain an optimal level of quality for mapping deliverables. This is done by considering every aspect of the data production process. Adhering to the IQA will ultimately promote consistency, prevent errors and rework. It will ensure that the instance and point clouds meet the expectations of the end-user.
Download the complete checklist for instance quality assurance here
What are the markers of a top-notch instance?
There are five indicators of a top-notch instance:
- Accurate Panoramic Images
Images clearly depict the mapped space, free of distortions and confidential information and minimal stitching errors.
Minimal residual errors, dense point cloud, and coloring and surface reconstruction consistent with that of the mapped space.
No misaligned datasets.
The ability to navigate through the entire mapped area without any issues. This will be as a result of checking the navigation graphs and site model.
- Accurate Two-Dimensional Maps
Two-dimensional maps which are synonymous with the mapped space in terms of both coloring and area.
How is Instance Quality Assurance done?
At NavVis, Quality Assurance takes the form of a checklist supported by an instruction sheet. The checklist is organized into four sections:
- Post-Processing Log Files
- Quality Map
- Point Cloud
- Instance
The IQA should be completed after the instance has been created. The instructions sheet, that is attached to the downloadable document below, explains which parameters the test person should consider for each question.
In the checklist, there is a column where you can check if the question is fulfilled or not. In case the item is not fulfilled, it should be double-checked with the peer to understand the root cause and rectify the issue.
In order to further strengthen the quality assurance framework, a peer review should also be done where an independent tester completes the same checklist, checking all deliverables. After the completion of this then a discussion can be had about the findings and next steps.
What are the benefits of Instance Quality Assurance?
Standardization - Enables the agreement of a set of quality targets that must be met before the deliverables are sent to the end-user.
Consistency - Ensures that all deliverables are of the same caliber irrespective of the mapper.
Accountability - Promotes transparent ownership of deliverables as the checklist is signed by the reviewer and peer reviewer.
Download the complete checklist for instance quality assurance here
We recommend you print the checklist and keep it at hand while completing each step. And, because sharing is caring, don't forget to print a copy for your colleagues!
Did you know that these standards, and other advanced mapping methods, are also taught in more detail in NavVis Mapping Masterclass training, available now online and free of charge? The exact same skills are then tested as part of partner certification in the Advanced Mapping Exam.
Stay tuned for more NavVis resources!
