What is Open Drone Map (ODM)?

Open Drone Map (ODM) is not just a single software but is a collection of software solutions capable of collecting, processing, and displaying aerial data. These software tools build on each other and are designed to work together. There is a command line Open Drone Map software toolkit (which is just referred to as Open Drone Map) and a Web (and more user-friendly) version of the same application, which is known as Web Open Drone Map (or WebODM). There is also an assortment of other ‘software modules’, including FIELDimageR, used to extend image analysis capabilities, and PyODM, used to code and develop additional ODM software capabilities. Further information about the software toolkit options is available from the ODM website: http://www.opendronemap.org. That said, do not get too bogged down in the details of all the options and flavors associated with this software collection since this tutorial only focuses on one specific product: Web Open Drone Map (WebODM).

There are many comprehensive documents and resources available for WebODM. However, most of these resources are almost too comprehensive and may not adequately support an entry-level (and nontechnical) audience, including pre-college educators, community college faculty, and other informal educators (Extension and 4-H Leaders, Scout Leaders, etc.). In addition to accessing inexpensive and user-friendly software, these stakeholders also require a manual they and their students can understand and work with. This tutorial was developed to support this educational void by coupling information from various technical sources with personal experience. This document was specifically designed to respond to the entry-level instructional needs of these educational communities.