08/20/2026
BIM QA/QC Lab | Tip #02
TLS vs. SLAM: The Point Cloud Accuracy Question
Not every point cloud is suitable for high-tolerance MEP coordination.
TLS
⢠Fixed scan positions
⢠Higher measurement accuracy
⢠Stronger control for detailed coordination
SLAM
⢠Faster mobile capture
⢠Excellent for rapid coverage
⢠Accuracy can vary with environment and trajectory
QC Check:
Before modeling, verify whether the point cloud accuracy matches the coordination tolerance required.
Fast capture is valuable. But the real question is:
Is the data accurate enough for the deliverable?