Getting started with the Propeller mobile app

Core features & capabilities

With Propeller Mobile, you can transform how you interact with your site data on the go.

• Explore Site Models: Seamlessly switch between 2D and 3D views of your site. Pinch to zoom in on specific areas for detailed insights or rotate the model for a complete perspective.
• Visualize Designs: Overlay design files, including Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) files, directly onto your site map. This makes it easy to compare as-built progress against the plan and perform quality assurance checks in the field.
• On-the-Fly Measurements: Quickly create temporary measurements to check the latest earthworks progress, verify elevations, or calculate simple distances and areas without returning to the office.
• Real-Time Collaboration: Use the app’s live maps and geo-location features to see your position on the site. You can also get turn-by-turn directions to your worksite via Google Maps and share the location with colleagues or contractors directly from the app.
• DirtMate Integration: If your site uses DirtMate, the app provides a dedicated tab to track real-time machine data 🚜. Monitor surface changes in real time and compare them with your latest drone survey for the most accurate progress tracking.

Getting the app

Download Propeller Mobile to your phone or tablet from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and start using DirtMate and drone data together for smarter site management.

Open Propeller Mobile. Tap the GET STARTED button. If you don't have a Propeller account, please contact the site administrator for permission.

Allow the app to sign you in using your Propeller credentials.

Choose your organization. 

Next, choose the site you want to view from the list.

General navigation

Use your index and thumb fingers and “pinch” the screen to zoom in and out on the map. To tilt or rotate the map, use two fingers together and push up, down, or twist to change the angle of or rotate the map.

Menu

Tap on the three bars menu to select a different SURVEY, SITE, and ORGANIZATION from the dropdown menus.

You can also GET HELP or LOG OUT from this menu.

Home button

Tap the Home button to return to the full extent of your site. 

Geo locate

Use the Geo Locate tool to orient yourself on the map. This function uses your mobile device’s GPS to obtain your current location. 

Compass

Tap the compass to orient the map back to north.

2D/3D view

Tap this button to switch between 2D and 3D views of your survey.

Map layers

Turn on additional layers using the Layers tool. This includes the line and design files associated with the survey.

Create button

Tap the + button to access the built-in measurement tools, including Elevation, Distance, and Area. 

View Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) files

The ability to view IFC files for more context while onsite makes it easy to simplify project planning, perform quality assurance by comparing as-built images against the design, and catch any errors early on before they impact later stages of the project.  

From the Designs tab, you can search Designs or navigate to the IFC file you want to view and toggle it on.

Share directions to your site

You can generate turn-by-turn directions to any specific location on your site directly from the mobile app. This feature creates a Google Maps navigation link to help you find specific stockpiles, hazards, or points of interest.

1. Tap the + (Create) button on the main screen.
2. Select Point from the menu. A crosshair will appear in the center of the map.

3. Pan and zoom the map to position the crosshair directly over the relevant location (e.g., a stockpile, hazard, or meeting point).

   

4. Choose your action:

• To get directions for yourself:
  • Tap the DIRECTIONS button. 
  • This opens a route in the Google Maps app (if installed) or your default browser.
• To share the location with others:
  • Tap the SHARE button next to the Directions button.
  • On iOS: A menu will appear allowing you to copy the Google Maps link, text it directly to someone, or send it via another app.
  • On Android: The link is automatically copied to your clipboard. You can also tap the share icon that appears to send it directly via an app or chat.

Light and dark mode

The Propeller mobile app supports both Light and Dark modes to improve visibility depending on your environment and preferences. The app automatically matches the appearance settings of your mobile device.

To toggle between Light and Dark mode:

1. Navigate to your mobile device's System Settings.
2. Locate the Display & Brightness (iOS) or Display (Android) menu.

3. Select either Light or Dark mode.
4. Return to the Propeller mobile app, and the interface will automatically update to match your system settings.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What types of data can I see in the app?

You have access to a wide range of critical site information, including:

• Measurements: Points, Lines, and Polygons
• Measurement Charts
• Safety Hazards and other Markups
• The app also respects all user permissions, so you will only see the data you are authorized to view or edit.

I still can't do it!

We wrote these articles to equip you with everything you need to get the job done on your own, but we understand that sometimes this isn't sufficient.

If you're stuck, you can connect with our support team by clicking the question mark button at the top right corner of your user portal.