Setting The Stage For A Successful Drone Mission

Setting the stage for a successful drone mission involves preparation. This is the key to success with any endeavor. The preparatory measures that go into planning will determine if I am ready. I use the below listed steps to assist me with accomplishing my mission. Whether it's a self project and my goal is to practice my skills, or for a paying customer, these steps are valid in both instances. Practicing these steps during a self project, will also make it much easier when putting my skills to use for a paying customer.

1. Preparatory Phase: What is the mission, and how am I going to accomplish it. I put my objectives in writing. This phase is also where I want my customer to outline their objectives. Have them present a statement of work (SOW) and review, to ensure what they want to accomplish, and I am capable of performing the mission. If working with team members contact them. 
2. Planning Phase: Gather information, list the tools and equipment that will be used. Next visit the area and visualize how the mission will be executed. This will assist with accomplishing the objectives. Weather will always be a factor, there are applications such as StationWX to give updated weather information. Also will there be any Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR's) Another useful tool is LAANC Time of day is a consideration. Early morning or late afternoon are what photographers call the Golden Hour, the sun during this time is not as harsh. Terrain is a consideration, is it an urban environment with tall buildings, or a rural setting with trees and power lines. I include team members that will be assisting me during the this phase. If I have a visual observer communication and emergency plans are discussed. If I need permission to fly in a particular area who do I contact.
3. Complete The Plan Phase: Now that I have gathered all the information that will help me achieve my objective, I communicate the plan to team members and to the customer. This phase is also when I finalize the plan. 
4. Action Phase: This is the time to put all the preparation and planning into action. Sometimes I need to make slight adjustments, but I do not deviate from the initial plan too much. During this phase I am also overseeing the mission and communicating with my team members.
5. Review Phase: Once I have completed the mission I take note of what went right or wrong. This is essential for planning future missions. 

There are many things that go in to planning and executing a successful mission. This list is extensive but not all encompassing. It can be adjusted, but the one thing I believe that cannot be changed, are the steps and the order in which they are listed. The Planning Phase is large in scope and the most detailed phase, but the other phases cannot be overlooked.

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NEWS YOU CAN USE:  FAA To Improve Airmen Certificate Training https://www.faa.gov/news/updates/?newsId=94845