A "birds eye survey" refers to a comprehensive overview of a particular area or situation, typically taken from a high vantage point. Similar phrases include "aerial view," "overview," and "panoramic view." Additionally, terms such as "helicopter view" and "top-down perspective" convey the same idea of seeing something from a higher perspective. Another useful term is "surveying from a distance," which describes the act of assessing a situation without getting too close to it. Overall, these synonyms highlight the importance of taking a broad perspective when examining a situation, allowing you to more accurately identify key patterns and trends.