LiDAR software: the hidden costs that slow you down

Buying a LiDAR sensor is exciting, it promises precision, efficiency, and the ability to capture the world in 3D. But for many professionals, the excitement quickly fades when they try to process and use the data.

The real challenges often come from software, not hardware. Many LiDAR vendors sell the sensor and treat the software as an optional extra. Teams end up paying separately just to process data, essential tools are missing, and workflows stall.

Even when software is included, there are other hidden hurdles: licenses advertised as "forever" often require additional payments for updates, support, or access to key features. On top of that, many apps lock you into their own ecosystem. Exporting data, collaborating with other teams, or using alternative software often requires an additional license or subscription. The result? Delays, frustration, and reduced productivity.

Why do these problems matter

Incomplete systems 

Buying a sensor without software is like buying a bike without wheels, you can't actually get moving. Teams spend time hunting down licenses or workarounds, delaying projects.

Hidden costs

"Perpetual licenses" can be misleading. Extra payments for updates, support, or features add up quickly, creating unexpected expenses.

Ecosystem lock-in

Many LiDAR apps restrict you to their proprietary workflow. Exporting to other formats or collaborating with different software systems is often difficult or impossible without paying more.

Workflow friction

These restrictions slow down data capture, processing, and analysis, making field teams less efficient and increasing the risk of project delays.

Flow App, a transparent and flexible solution

Flow App, included with FLUX, addresses these issues in a straightforward, user-first way:

• Software included: All essential tools for FLUX scans are included, you don't need to buy a separate license to use your system.
• Free for FLUX scans: Capture, process, and analyze FLUX data immediately, with no hidden costs.
• Optional upgrades: Want to process other LiDAR scans or use advanced features? Upgrades are optional, but they are never mandatory.
• No ecosystem lock-in: Export standard formats like LAS and work with any software you choose. You're not trapped in Flow App.

Returning to the bike analogy, FLUX and Flow App comes fully rideable, with all the wheels you need to get started. Optional upgrades, like premium wheels, offer extra performance but aren't required to ride. Many competitors, by contrast, sell frames and lock essential functionality behind additional costs.

Why this approach matters

• Immediate productivity: Start capturing and processing data in the field right away.
• Predictable costs: No surprises or forced subscriptions to use essential features.
• Flexible workflow: Export your data or use optional advanced tools as needed.
• User-focused design: Streamlined, intuitive workflows minimize delays and frustration.

By addressing these common industry pitfalls, FLUX and Flow App lets teams focus on what matters most: capturing accurate data and turning it into actionable insights, rather than navigating hidden costs or restrictive workflows.

The takeaway

In the LiDAR market, software licensing, workflow design, and ecosystem flexibility are often more important than hardware specs.

With FLUX and Flow App, you get a fully functional system from day one, optional upgrades for specialized needs, and transparent software with no hidden fees for essential features.

It's software that works for you, not against you, empowering field teams instead of creating barriers.