RealTime - Spring 2008 - (Page 36)

We Energies recognized that its paper-based, bar code scanning data collection method for conducting the surveys was time-consuming and inefficient. The solution required technicians to hold the leak-survey equipment in one hand and paper routes on a clipboard in the other. The workers then documented the survey results on paper. A portion of each day was spent scanning numerous bar codes—each representing a specific condition or completion status of the survey—from the earlier results documented on paper. “We realized that the gas technicians were recording their data on paper and then completing their bar code scanning at the end of the day,” said Kris Ackerman, senior engineer, gas system operations for We Energies. “We needed a new solution that was efficient in the field, yet user-friendly for our employees, in order to improve upon this process.” Automating fieldwork In the fall of 2006, We Energies turned to Process & Technology Solutions to purchase Intermec CN3 mobile computers to improve its leak survey process. With the mobile computers running an application developed by We Energies, field workers can now simply download routes to their CN3s at the beginning of a shift and document any actions taken while performing the surveys in the field. The solution features a bright display for use in direct sunlight, and in the future will include an integrated camera to document unusual conditions. With the new system, the company has dramatically reduced paper usage and costs and is becoming more environmentally friendly. The mobile computers have also eliminated the end-of-day scanning, enabling technicians to complete more surveys per shift. In addition, employee 36 realtime / 2008

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RealTime - Spring 2008

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