MIT spinoff OpenSpace invented automated 360-degree video jobsite capture and mapping. "It's not exactly an amazing observation," says CEO Jeevan Kalanithi, "but a picture really is worth a thousand words." In the world of real estate development, visual documentation of construction projects is critical. It aids in dispute resolution, prevents mistakes from being compounded, and allows for knowledge capture in case of change orders. Builders are often contractually obligated to document progress.

People who work behind a computer screen all day take it for granted that everyone's work will be tracked and accessible when they collaborate with others. But if your job takes place out in the real world, managing projects can require a lot more effort. In construction, for example, general contractors and real estate developers often need someone to be physically present on a job site to verify work is done correctly and on time. They might also rely on a photographer or smartphone images to document a project's progress. Those imperfect solutions can lead to accountability issues, unnecessary change orders, and project delays.