Ricoh today announced it is accelerating collaborations with experienced software partners to meet the growing needs of the restoration and insurance industry through enhanced functionality of its RICOH360 platform services, and providing development support to enable quick and remote sharing of 360-degree images. This enhancement will enable users to easily share 360-degree images and virtual tours on a variety of devices, including mobile apps and PCs, making disaster site assessments and information sharing faster and more cost-effective. Additionally, AI-powered image correction and other AI-driven features will further enhance the value of 360-degree imaging. 

In recent years, the use of 360-degree imaging has been rapidly expanding in the restoration and insurance industry. According to a recent survey by R&R Magazine, presented in a June 2024 webinar¹, contractors were polled to determine their equipment anticipated in the next 12 months. The results revealed that 3D cameras topped the list. 

“Investment in 360-degree imaging technology has been increasing as more businesses look to streamline damage assessments, enhance the efficiency of restoration processes, and facilitate seamless information sharing among stakeholders,” said Yasuo Nishiyama, Vice President, Smart Vision, Ricoh. “Technologies like the RICOH THETA enable professionals to accurately and quickly assess on-site conditions, significantly improving productivity. Ricoh remains committed to driving digital transformation for the restoration and insurance industry and contributing to its continued growth with innovative technologies that redefine what’s possible in space capture.” 

As the first initiative in this effort, Restoration OS (R-OS) launched a new application with 360- degree capabilities using the RICOH THETA X on February 1, 2024. This application enables users to comprehensively manage fire, water, and mold damage, as well as monitor repair progress using 360-degree imaging, improving both reporting efficiency and accuracy. 

“As the founder of Restoration Operating Software, we recognized the need for a partnership delivering speed, accuracy, and cost savings to the realm of digital 3D/360 documentation. We're pleased to have found that partner in Ricoh, who provides fast, accurate, and affordable 360 documentation for every file, streamlining the process for contractors,” said Mitch Byrom, Founder, R-OS. “We believe that the technology, support, and deep integration offered by this partnership will enable a best-in-class, digital workflow, allowing restoration contractors to quickly provide the necessary 360 digital twin documentation to insurance adjusters and building owners. We anticipate this collaboration will set a new standard for file documentation in the future." 

For more information, please visit R-OS and RICOH360. 

About Restoration OS

A team of Restoration operators, technical experts, and industry advocates coming together to mix the experience of operating a restoration company from zero to exit with the background of building the largest job management system in the market, now putting together the 21st-century version of what Restoration operating software looks like to help contractors in our industry survive and thrive despite all the increased competition and consolidation. For more, visit www.restoration-os.com.

About Ricoh 

Ricoh is a leading provider of integrated digital services and print and imaging solutions designed to support digital transformation of workplaces, workspaces and optimize business performance. 

Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh’s global operation reaches customers in approximately 200 countries and regions, supported by cultivated knowledge, technologies, and organizational capabilities nurtured over its 85-year history. In the financial year ended March 2024, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of 2,348 billion yen (approx. 15.5 billion USD). 

It is Ricoh’s mission and vision to empower individuals to find Fulfillment through Work by understanding and transforming how people work so we can unleash their potential and creativity to realize a sustainable future. 

For further information, please visit www.ricoh.com.