Deformation monitoring is the measurement and monitoring of alterations in the shape of an object as a result of stress. Examples include such things as the wide-spread occurrence of slope failure across California after a fire or due to earthquake tremors.

High-definition laser scanning is an ideal method for capturing such irregular shapes (for example, hillsides) and the resultant model (for example, a polygonal mesh) permits the shape of the overall object to be analyzed (as opposed to just a series of discrete points). This data can greatly improve geotechnical analysis as it gives a much better picture of the overall movement of an area.

Examples include slope failure and stability analysis, sea cliff erosion monitoring, structural monitoring and earthquake monitoring.

A crime or accident scene can be quickly, accurately and comprehensively captured in 3D to aid in the forensic analysis. This allows, for example, lines of site or bullet trajectories to be easily and accurately verified, or the scene of a fall or a collapsed building after an earthquake to be modeled.

The use of a laser scanner allows large volumes of data to be recorded remotely in a relatively short period of time and permits forensic analysts and investigators to digitally revisit the scene as necessary. And 3D data is also much more recognizable and understandable to laymen who may have an interest in the analysis (for example, judges and jury members).