Ground Control Points (GCPs) are marked points on the ground with known coordinates. Adding GCPs to an already-processed map ensures your data aligns with real-world measurements for improved global accuracy.
Disclaimer: Uploading via this method uses the Legacy Uploader and is not the recommended workflow. While it remains functional, it is not tested as thoroughly as the Smart Uploader. For the best performance and reliability, we recommend uploading either Project Level GCPs or Process GCPs with the Smart Uploader. Using the Legacy Uploader may result in occasional bugs.
Availability: Who has access?
GCP functionality is available for all paid DroneDeploy Aerial subscriptions.
Access this feature through the web platform.
How to add GCPs to an existing map
Follow these steps to add GCP coordinates to a map that has already finished processing.
1. Navigate to the Map Analysis section. Go to the Explore tab of the map. Click Map under the Map Analysis section located on the left side panel.
2. Open Map Details. From the Map Details section, select the blue + (plus) button.
3. Access the processing link. Wait up to 10 seconds for the Continue to Processing link to appear. Once it loads, click the link.
4. Upload GCP data. Click Ground Control Points to add your .csv file and enter your EPSG code.
5. Confirm the addition. Follow the onscreen steps, then click Add GCPs.
6. Start processing. Select Start Processing. This step is required to apply the new coordinates to your map data.
7. Tag your GCPs. Once the map finishes processing, the original uploader receives an email to tag the GCPs. Click the link in the email and follow the standard GCP tagging guidelines.
If you are not the original uploader, monitor the Upload tab. When the status changes from Processing to Tag your GCPs, click that link to begin tagging.
Key Features
Post-Processing Accuracy: Improve the global accuracy of a project even after the initial flight data is processed.
Legacy Support: Maintain workflows for existing projects that require manual coordinate injection.
Limitations
Processing Time: More than 90% of maps finish GCP AI in less than 1 hour and 30 minutes. Extremely large maps (2,500+ images) may take longer.
Workflow Reliability: The Legacy Uploader is not the primary recommended path; users should transition to the Smart Uploader for critical projects.
FAQs
Q: Where can I find more detailed tagging instructions?
A: Refer to our GCP Tagging documentation for an in-depth guide on marking points.
Q: How do I know if my map is still processing?
A: Check the status in the Upload tab. The text updates to Tag your GCPs when the AI processing is complete.
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