Mention the words "small drone" and what might come to mind are hobbyists flying remote-controlled objects resembling miniature helicopters. Though many operate drones for fun, the technology is also gaining acceptance on the commercial side. Armed with powerful video and/or photographic attributes, these small, flying objects are providing "eyes in the sky" for companies, allowing them to collect data, deliver goods and to check on the status of projects. Alibaba, Wal-Mart Stores and Amazon are looking to drone usage for ecommerce, while warehouse operators use the technology for inventory control. On the commercial real estate side, property developers and brokers are experimenting with the multi-propeller devices for purposes ranging from aerial photos to boost marketing efforts, to real-time safety observations on construction sites. Still, the era of drones in the commercial economy is in its infancy, meaning more innovations are required to boost software and hardware capabilities. In addition, rules and regulations for drone flight need to be honed before the technology can be more acceptable and widely adopted.

Key Takeaways:

• Identify key benefits of drone use in real estate: Construction, Supply Chain, Warehousing and Logistics, Structural Maintenance or Land Management
• Understand the implications to the future of workplace, talent and human resource practices.
• Define the regulatory barriers as well as the privacy and personal information concerns.