How can drone companies increase their revenue?

Many drone operators are starting out by offering aerial photography and video services, and this is a significant part of the market for drone use. But drones aren’t just about pretty pictures and videos – there’s tremendous value in providing more advanced services that offer data and analysis, not just raw images. Such services not only increase margins, but also allow you to create a business model based on recurring services, generating steady income. Such a business model gives greater stability and predictability, which is crucial to a company’s long-term success.

According to the report Drone Industry Insights, companies offering analytics and data processing services are reporting higher margins and faster growth than those focusing solely on photography and video.

Instead of limiting themselves to selling mere photos and videos, drone operators can offer services to provide analytical data for various industries such as construction, surveying and inspection. This can enter areas such as:

• Digital terrain models and point clouds – used in surveying and construction, among other applications.
• Orthophotos – precise images of land useful for investment planning.
• Volume and area measurement – used in mining, logistics and construction.

These services can be offered on a subscription model to build long-term relationships with customers and provide greater financial stability.

The subscription model is becoming increasingly popular, according to PwC, “Clarity from Above”, as many as 41% of infrastructure companies say they are interested in regular drone monitoring.

Not all drone operators have advanced data analysis software. In that case, you can consider partnering with companies or tools that offer data processing services. Operators can then provide ready-made analysis and reports without investing in expensive tools. Such a business model allows them to increase the value of their services and charge more for comprehensive solutions.

Outsourcing data processing saves small drone companies up to 30% in costs and 75% in time, allowing them to focus on key activities such as sales and customer acquisition. The market for drone data processing and analysis services is growing rapidly, according to Grand View Research, the global drone analytics market reached $14.99 billion in 2024 and will grow at a rate of more than 22% per year through 2030.

While drone photos and videos are a mainstay of many companies’ operations, consider expanding your offerings to include additional services such as:

• Construction and infrastructure inspections – damage reporting and analysis of changes over time.
• Site inventory – creating accurate field models.
• Measurement of heap volume – a popular service in the aggregate and open pit mining industry.
• Thermal imaging analysis – used in energy and building inspection
• Creation of factual documentation in relation to archival and project data

Expanding offerings and bundling services (so-called bundling) can increase the value of contracts by as much as 15-20%, McKinsey & Company analysis confirms.

Drone operators can also expand their services to include:

• Monitoring of agricultural crops and forests – plant health analysis and disease detection for precision agriculture and forest management
• Support for local governments and emergency services – mapping areas affected by natural disasters and quickly transmitting data to emergency headquarters.

The market for agricultural and emergency services using drones is growing the fastest, according to MarketsandMarkets, the CAGR for these segments is more than 20% annually.

• Subscription model – instead of one-time orders, operators can offer subscriptions and regular processing, allowing for financial stability.
• Higher value of services – customers receive not only photos and videos, but also ready-made analysis and reports, which increases the value of the offer.
• Time and cost savings – with data processing outsourcing, the company can focus on raiding rather than costly software investments.
• Scalability – the company can serve a larger number of customers, increasing earning potential with less effort.

Developing a drone business based on advanced services allows you to generate recurring revenue and increase your company’s profitability. To succeed, it is worth investing in expanding your offerings with new services that meet the needs of different industries, and look for opportunities to create long-term relationships with customers.

A flexible approach to the market and quick response to new customer needs is key. The future of drone companies is not just about technology, but more importantly, the ability to provide valuable business solutions.

• Drone Industry Insights – global drone industry trends
• PwC, “Clarity from Above”. – analysis of the drone services market
• Grand View Research, “Drone Analytics Market Report” – drone analytics market
• McKinsey & Company, “Commercial Drones: Mapping the Future”. – the future of commercial drones
• MarketsandMarkets, “Drone Services Market”. – market growth forecasts