Offshore Model

Offshore Support

GIS, Smallworld, ESRI

Utility Consulting Services (UCS) offers an offshore transformational model that relies on advanced toolsets for GIS, Maximo, and SAP applications. By using these tools, we can create a migration roadmap that takes advantage of UCS's existing efficiencies and helps to achieve the full potential of the program we are supporting. Our mutual goals include retaining all essential information, identifying opportunities to use new GIS, Maximo, and SAP capabilities, building a model that fits the organization's specific needs, and developing plans to manage change during the migration.

 

Coordination – UCS Hybrid Framework

It can be challenging for onshore and offshore teams to work together effectively if there is no proper coordination. This lack of collaboration can cause miscommunication, which can negatively impact the quality of work and the delivery of results. In this context, it is essential to discuss some best practices for managing hybrid teams and how your company can facilitate effective coordination between onshore and offshore teams.

To achieve successful outcomes, all planning should be conducted in the context of the project life cycle. This includes project planning, software installation and configuration, database design, data collection and editing, custom application development, systems integration, and high-end analysis and data science.

Understanding the wide-ranging issues that impact the migration to the UCS Utility Model allows utilities to prepare for any software migration, staffing, or other challenges that may arise. Starting this process as soon as possible pays off in both the short and long term for the enablement of your offshore delivery model.

Asset Management – Electric Grid & Gas Operations

Effective asset management is crucial for electric and gas utilities to efficiently track and manage their assets. This process involves monitoring key variables such as asset age, usage, maintenance history, and other pertinent metrics. Asset Performance Management (APM) and PowerGridX™ elevate traditional asset management by leveraging data analytics, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance to enhance decision-making.

Implementing an APM-enabled asset management system and PowerGridX™ mitigate the risk of equipment failure, extending asset lifespan, and improving operational efficiency. This approach not only reduces costs but also ensures service reliability and optimal uptime.

Work Management

A successful work management process in electric utilities requires organization-wide adoption, extending beyond specific departments. The objective is to identify tasks early, plan and schedule them effectively, and execute them with maximum efficiency while thoroughly documenting results. Effective integration of systems, data, and tools can significantly enhance productivity, especially with mobile integration for field workers. This approach leads to:

Benefits:

  • Reduced reliance on external contractors
  • Decreased emergency work and callouts
  • Well-prioritized work orders
  • More predictable and stable inventory costs

Mobile Integration:

  • Real-time access to work orders and asset information
  • Enhanced communication and coordination among field workers
  • Immediate documentation and reporting from the field
  • Improved accuracy and efficiency in task execution

GIS for Electric Grid & Gas Operations

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are indispensable tools for electric and gas utilities, providing a foundational platform for asset management and regulatory compliance. Utilities leverage GIS for a multitude of tasks, including managing field operations, performing spatial analysis, and supporting decision-making processes.

To maximize the potential of GIS technology, it is crucial to integrate all relevant stakeholders—field workers, engineers, managers, decision-makers, and clients. Web-based GIS applications centralize geospatial data, facilitating collaboration across teams through a unified dataset.

Asset Inventory and Infrastructure Insights

Maintaining an accurate inventory of assets such as electric poles, transformers, substations, pipelines, valves, and city gate stations is crucial for utility operations. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) streamline data management, supporting an efficient work management process while ensuring data traceability, reliability, and completeness. Additionally, GIS provides valuable insights into infrastructure data.

Technical Aspects:

    • Data Mapping: Utilize GIS to map and catalog assets, ensuring comprehensive and accurate data management.
    • Usage Pattern Analysis: Implement UCS methodology, enabled by PowerGridX™, to analyze usage patterns and detect potential risks such as power outages or pipeline over-pressurization.
    • Energy Consumption Tracking: Monitor and analyze energy consumption data to identify trends and optimize resource allocation.
    • Risk Detection: Employ advanced analytics to proactively identify and resolve potential threats to the electric grid and gas networks.
    • Infrastructure Insights: Leverage GIS to gain detailed insights into infrastructure performance, enabling informed decision-making and strategic planning.

This proactive approach helps Finex maintain a resilient and efficient energy infrastructure.