Your most Important Utility Management Tool

A Geographic Information System (GIS) involves much more than just mapping. GIS empowers utilities to build on the system information they have, to better operate their systems - and ultimately, to better serve their customers.

Utilities can leverage GIS to link databases of critical infrastructure information to physical locations, such as customer addresses or surveying coordinates. A water utility, for instance, can link billing or work order information to its customer meter locations.

Developing a utility GIS typically involves two project phases:

Collecting GPS Field Data

Field crews use global position satellite (GPS) technology to determine the exact coordinates of field features, such as fire hydrants or manholes. This data is downloaded to a computer, post-processed for increased accuracy, and then imported into the GIS software package.

Developing the GIS Databases

In the office, GIS technicians use record drawings and system schematics to “connect the dots” between the point features surveyed in the field. The GIS databases are also populated with other information about the utility infrastructure, such as pipe diameters and materials; maintenance records; and naming conventions.