Founded in 1964, Plowman Craven provides geospatial insight and surveying services that help customers shape assets that create safer environments, stronger communities, and enduring value. Across six offices around the globe, its team combines technology with multidisciplinary expertise to deliver precise data and geospatial clarity for its customers.
Ahead of the release of NavVis CLX, Plowman Craven's Technology & Innovation Department was invited to preview the new system. Mark Wakeling, Technology and Innovation Director, shared his perspective on where CLX fits within the NavVis portfolio, the kinds of applications it could support, and the importance of simplicity and reliability for teams using reality capture technology.
The following statements are based on feedback gathered during this early-access customer discussion with Plowman Craven. Quotes have been lightly edited for clarity, brevity, and readability while preserving the original intent.
A natural extension of the NavVis portfolio
From the first interaction, the new device was immediately understood in the context of the existing NavVis offering. Rather than feeling like a departure from the portfolio, it was perceived as a logical next step. It brings NavVis capabilities into a more compact and accessible format.
“It feels like a natural extension of the NavVis portfolio. It is a smaller, more accessible system that still carries the same design philosophy and quality you expect from the NavVis LX Series.”
This sense of continuity is important. For established users, it reinforces trust. The device is not introducing an entirely new concept, but rather expanding what is already proven.
“You can proudly put this next to NavVis MLX and NavVis VLX. It clearly belongs to the same family.”
Right sized for everyday reality capture
A key theme throughout the discussion was the idea of using the right tool for the job. While high end systems like NavVis MLX remain essential for detailed and high accuracy work, they are not always necessary for more routine applications.
“For applications like area referencing, this is exactly the right tool. With NavVis MLX, you are often using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. This feels much more appropriate.”
This distinction is critical. The device fills a gap where users need reliable and usable data without the complexity, cost, or over-specification of higher end systems.
“For wayfinding, indoor capture, and general site understanding, the data quality is more than fit for purpose.”
Effortless capture with minimal user dependency
Ease of use emerged as one of the strongest points of differentiation. Compared to other handheld systems, which often require deliberate effort to ensure full coverage, this device aligns more closely with the intuitive capture experience of NavVis VLX.
“What stands out immediately is how easy it is to use. You are not painting the scene like with other handheld systems. You just move naturally and capture everything you need.”
This reduces both training requirements and the risk of incomplete datasets, making the system particularly attractive in environments where users may not be specialists.
Designed for real world team environments
In practice, many organizations rely on a mix of experienced surveyors and occasional users. In these environments, consistency and simplicity are essential.
“In our environment, we often have occasional users. Simplicity and consistency are critical. This kind of system removes a lot of friction.”
The device’s ability to operate independently, without reliance on external devices such as smartphones, was highlighted as a major advantage.
“Systems that work independently, without relying on phones or apps, make a huge difference. You know it will behave the same way every time.”
This reliability is especially important when devices are shared across teams, projects, or shifts.
Balancing accuracy with efficiency
While the device does not aim to match the highest levels of accuracy offered by flagship systems, this was not seen as a limitation for its intended applications. Instead, it reflects a deliberate and acceptable trade off.
“For most indoor applications, the level of accuracy here is not a concern. It is more than sufficient for the job.”
This reinforces the positioning of the device as a fit for purpose solution, where speed, ease of use, and accessibility take priority over maximum precision.
A compelling alternative in an evolving market
As lower cost and more simplified capture devices continue to enter the market, the new NavVis device is seen as a strong competitor. It offers similar accessibility while maintaining higher standards in usability, reliability, and data trust.
“It is a really compelling system. You can see how it competes with simpler devices in the market, but still brings the reliability and build quality NavVis is known for.”
Ultimately, the device strikes a balance that resonates with real world needs.
“This feels like the right balance. It is a system that is easy to use, fit for purpose, and still delivers the confidence you expect from NavVis.”
Summary
From a customer perspective, the new device is not about replacing existing systems, but about expanding the toolkit. It enables teams to approach a broader range of projects more efficiently by choosing the appropriate level of capability for each task.
By combining simplicity, portability, and trusted data quality, it opens up new workflows while staying firmly aligned with the expectations associated with NavVis technology.
Ready to see how NavVis CLX can transform your own workflows?
