6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Utility Mapping Solution

AI-powered solutions are being developed to automate data extraction from various sources, including imagery and LiDAR scans, further enhancing data accuracy and streamlining workflows. Additionally, ML algorithms are being implemented to identify anomalies and potential issues in utility networks, enabling proactive maintenance and preventing costly failures.

By embracing these advancements and leveraging the power of utility mapping solutions, we can create a safer, more efficient, and more resilient infrastructure for the future.

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1. 6 COMMON MISTAKES
TO AVOID WHEN
USING UTILITY
MAPPING SOLUTION
www.ocumap.com 2700 Post Oak Blvd 21st Floor
Houston, TX 77056, USA

2. UTILITY MAPPING
SOFTWARE
Utility lines are the backbone of our modern society,
carrying electrical, water, natural gas, and
telecommunication signals. But hidden beneath the
surface are utility lines that can be difficult for
infrastructure managers to manage and construction
crews to access. Utility mapping solutions are powerful
tools that reveal the invisible and provide a clear view of
what's beneath the surface.
There are numerous utility mapping software and services
available, each offering a range of benefits. OcuMap, for
example, leverages drive-by-imagery to capture
panoramic videos of electric distribution grids, allowing
users to verify asset locations and perform condition
assessments directly from their desktops.
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3. 2. FAILING TO DEFINE YOUR
NEEDS
Knowing your goals helps you
choose a solution with the right
functionalities. OcuMap, for
instance, caters to electric utilities
by streamlining the verification of
electric distribution assets and
facilitating condition assessments
from street level imagery.
Utility mapping solutions aren't one-
size-fits-all. Before diving in, clearly
define your specific needs. Are you
primarily concerned with locating
underground utilities for excavation
projects? Or are you focused on
asset management and condition
assessment for your electric grid?
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4. 2. UNDERESTIMATING DATA
QUALITY
The quality of data feeding your utility mapping solution is paramount. Inaccurate or outdated
information can lead to costly errors on the ground. Here's how to ensure data integrity:
Prioritize Data Source Accuracy: Rely on trusted sources for initial data input, such as utility
company records or as-built drawings.
Implement Data Verification Processes: Use the mapping solution to verify existing data and
identify discrepancies requiring field validation.
Maintain a Data Management Plan: Establish procedures for data updates, version control, and
user access control to ensure consistency.
By prioritizing data quality, you can build trust in your utility mapping solution and make informed
decisions based on its outputs.
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5. 3. NEGLECTING STAFF TRAINING
System functionalities: Ensure users
understand how to navigate the
software, utilize key features, and
interpret the generated data.
A powerful utility mapping solution requires a skilled workforce to utilize it effectively. Invest in
comprehensive training for your staff on the chosen software or service. This training should
cover:
Field integration: If the solution involves
field verification, train staff on how to
seamlessly integrate field data with the
mapping software.
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6. 4. IGNORING INTEGRATION WITH
EXISTING SYSTEMS
01
02
03
Utility mapping solutions shouldn't exist in isolation. Strive for
seamless integration with your existing Geographic Information
System (GIS) and asset management software. This allows for:
Data Synchronization: Ensure your utility data remains
consistent across platforms, minimizing the risk of
errors and discrepancies.
Enhanced Workflows: Streamline workflows by
leveraging data from different systems for a more
holistic view of your infrastructure.
Improved Decision-Making: Integrate cost data,
maintenance records, and spatial information to make
data-driven decisions regarding asset management
and maintenance strategies.
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7. 5. OVERLOOKING
SCALABILITY
Data Storage Capacity: Ensure the solution can
accommodate the growing volume of data as your
network expands.
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Your utility infrastructure is constantly evolving. Choose a utility
mapping solution that can scale with your needs. Consider
factors like:
User Capacity: Will the solution be able to support
additional users as your workforce grows?
Functionality Expansion: Does the solution offer the
flexibility to integrate new features as your needs
evolve?

8. 6. FAILING TO
UTILIZE THE FULL
POTENTIAL
Utility mapping solutions offer more than
just basic asset location. Explore the
additional functionalities your chosen
solution provides. OcuMap, for example,
facilitates street asset inventory and helps
identify potential system reliability
upgrades.
By fully utilizing these capabilities, you can
unlock significant efficiency gains and
optimize your overall infrastructure
management strategy.
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9. CONCLUSION
By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can
maximize the return on investment in your utility
mapping solution. With a well-defined strategy,
high-quality data, and a well-trained workforce,
you can leverage the power of utility mapping
software and services to:
Enhance Safety: Reduce the risk of accidents
by accurately pinpointing underground
utilities.
Improve Efficiency: Streamline excavation
projects, optimize maintenance schedules, and
expedite decision-making.
Boost Operational Performance: Identify areas
for network improvement, prioritize asset
maintenance needs, and increase overall
system reliability.
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10. WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM UTILITY
MAPPING SOLUTIONS?
A wide range of stakeholders can benefit from implementing a utility mapping solution. Here are some
key examples:
Utility Companies: Enhance asset management, streamline maintenance workflows, and improve
public safety by providing precise underground utility locations.
Construction Companies: Reduce the risk of utility strikes during excavation projects, leading to
improved project timelines and cost control.
Engineering Firms: Gain a clear understanding of existing infrastructure during the planning stages
of new development projects.
Government Agencies: Facilitate urban planning initiatives, ensure public safety by maintaining
accurate utility records, and improve emergency response effectiveness.
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11. HOW TO GET STARTED WITH A
UTILITY MAPPING SOLUTION
Conduct a Needs Assessment: Evaluate your specific requirements and
challenges regarding underground utility management.
Research Utility Mapping Solutions: Explore available software and services,
considering factors like functionality, scalability, and integration capabilities.
Request Demos and Trials: Experience first-hand how different solutions
address your needs.
Develop a Data Management Plan: Establish procedures for data gathering,
verification, storage, and access control.
Invest in Staff Training: Ensure your workforce is equipped with the necessary
skills to utilize the chosen solution effectively.
Implement a Pilot Project: Start with a small-scale project to test the
functionality of the chosen solution and refine your implementation strategy.
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12. THE FUTURE OF UTILITY
MAPPING
The future of utility mapping is bright. Advancements in
technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine
learning (ML) are poised to further revolutionize this field.
AI-powered solutions are being developed to automate
data extraction from various sources, including imagery
and LiDAR scans, further enhancing data accuracy and
streamlining workflows. Additionally, ML algorithms are
being implemented to identify anomalies and potential
issues in utility networks, enabling proactive maintenance
and preventing costly failures.
By embracing these advancements and leveraging the
power of utility mapping solutions, we can create a safer,
more efficient, and more resilient infrastructure for the
future.
www.ocumap.com

13. CONTACT US
[email protected]
www.ocumap.com
2700 Post Oak Blvd 21st Floor
Houston, TX 77056, USA
www.ocumap.com

14. THANK YOU
FOR YOUR ATTENTION
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