Mobile HeatGrid in a Heating Company
Industry: District Heating
Country: Poland
Solution: Mobile HeatGrid
Category: Field Service Management
Challenges
Our client sought a way to enhance the efficiency of their network operations, which included handling outages, performing seasonal switches, conducting periodic inspections, and managing valve operations.
Prior to implementing Mobile HeatGrid, task reports and network data were manually recorded on paper forms during fieldwork. These forms were later transcribed into the GIS system and converted into reports, a time-consuming and error-prone process.
Solution – Mobile HeatGrid
To address these challenges, our team implemented Mobile HeatGrid, a solution customized to the client’s specific needs. Mobile HeatGrid digitizes heating network processes, automates task creation for field technicians, streamlines planning, and tracks progress in real-time, all while seamlessly collecting data on network assets.
The system comprises three key components:
- Dispatcher’s App: Enables managers to prepare task schedules and monitor work progress.
- Mobile App: Empowers field technicians to access assigned tasks and report their progress on the go.
- GIS System Interface: Facilitates the exchange of tasks between the GIS system and field technicians while integrating collected field data back into the GIS system.
The client was already using the DH.GIS system for managing network resources. We integrated it with Mobile HeatGrid to fully automate task creation and data collection, ensuring a seamless workflow.
Discover Mobile HeatGrid Features
Generate tasks related to network maintenance directly from your GIS system.
Automatically assign tasks to mobile employees and teams.
Optimize schedules based on task priorities.
Automatically create photo documentation during inspections and outage interventions.
Provides data for work time records.
Visualize your heating network (nodes, chambers, valves, etc.) on a map in both the dispatcher and mobile worker apps.
Utilize the smartphone app to handle tasks, track progress, and document network condition using digital forms tailored to specific tasks such as inspections, switches, outages, maintenance, and repairs.
Mobile HeatGrid Implementation
We implemented the system in two stages: a pilot phase and a production deployment.
Stage 1 – Pilot Phase
We provided the mobile app to a group of field technicians and the dispatcher app to in-office dispatchers. The client tested the system during daily operations to assess how employees adapted to this new network management approach.
Stage 2 – Production Deployment and GIS Integration
Following the pilot phase, all mobile workers at the company adopted Mobile HeatGrid. We integrated it with their GIS system to enable network visualization within both the Dispatcher App and the mobile app.
How Does Mobile HeatGrid work?
GIS generates tasks related to network objects, such as valves. Data collected in the field through the mobile app is forwarded to the GIS system, ensuring that network information is updated in real-time.
Mobile HeatGrid integrates with DH.GIS modules, such as Outages and Dispatcher, offering features like:
- Automating task creation.
- Collecting data and updating task statuses for outage handling, seasonal switches, and customer support.
- Generating bulk tasks for specific service recipients and network objects.
These features simplify network operation planning and reduce the time required to create tasks, including maintenance tasks where specific heat nodes need attention.
The Benefits of Mobile HeatGrid
Mobile HeatGrid transformed workflows for managers, dispatchers, and field technicians, leading to streamlined task completion and more efficient operations.
Benefits for Managers
Simplified Planning and Task Assignment
Managers can quickly plan, assign, and visualize task schedules for field crews. Tasks are loaded automatically via the interface between DH.GIS and Mobile HeatGrid, saving time and reducing errors.
Real-time Task Monitoring
Managers can oversee all assigned tasks using a map and a Gantt chart that visualizes employee schedules. Dynamic task statuses enable swift responses to unforeseen events.
Efficient Reporting and Data Analysis
Detailed reports summarize tasks, completed work, and employee productivity, allowing managers to assess crew efficiency with ease.
Up-to-date Progress Information
Managers have real-time access to updates on network operations, enhancing customer service and operational control.
Benefits for Field Technicians and Crews
Optimized Work Time
Field technicians no longer need to plan tasks themselves, allowing them to focus fully on their work.
Eliminated Paperwork
Digital forms replace cumbersome paper forms, streamlining task documentation and accelerating workflows. Voice input further simplifies form completion.
Improved Work Comfort and Organization
Technicians can easily access their task schedules and all relevant network information through the mobile app, boosting efficiency and job satisfaction.
Accurate Work Time Records
Mobile HeatGrid automatically logs completed tasks and working hours, offering employees a clear task history.
Benefits for the Entire Heating Enterprise
Comprehensive Network Information
Data collected in the field is structured and accurate, enabling in-depth statistical analysis and improved decision-making.
Streamlined Task Documentation
Digital forms and photo attachments ensure transparent and reliable data collection. Photos are tagged with time and location details and linked to the relevant task and network element.
Enhanced Understanding of Network Condition
Detailed, real-time data supports better maintenance planning and network repairs.
Increased Work Efficiency
Automated task planning and reporting significantly reduce administrative work, enabling technicians to complete more tasks in less time.
Improved Strategic Planning
Comprehensive, data-driven reports allow management to make informed decisions quickly and effectively.
Summary
Mobile HeatGrid has significantly improved operational efficiency, including network infrastructure inspections. The system automates planning and work registration while enhancing fieldwork management.
All operations, including inspections and maintenance, are now aligned with real needs. Collected network data supports better planning, while digitized tasks ensure reliable and comprehensive data collection. Improved work conditions for mobile workers result in higher-quality performance.
Mobile HeatGrid ensures real-time database updates about network conditions, enabling repairs to be scheduled efficiently for optimal infrastructure performance.
Further Collaboration
Users appreciate Mobile HeatGrid in their daily operations, and managers are already exploring new features to expand the system’s functionality.
Our client plans to implement Mobile HeatGrid across all departments, particularly for teams responsible for emergency heating services.
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