Your Utility Network migration timeline is dependent on scale, level of your GIS customization, and the quality of your data. There are six primary phases involved in migrating your data to the Network Management platform.
(Optional) Phase Zero: UN Data Assessment
If a data assessment has not been performed, either by UDC or another vendor, then we will conduct one prior to your full migration. Using our automation tools, we conduct a robust source data analysis and Utility Network data analysis to define your data readiness for the Utility Network model. We then identify and investigate any data irregularities and provide you with options for fixing the errors. Leveraging the results of the assessment, we create with you post-analysis goals and a plan for readying your data for full migration.
Phase One: Pilot / Application Prototype
The first phase completes the data model and provides a starting point for driving the target Utility Network/UPDM format.
Using our HEIDE auto-migration tool to perform model suitability evaluations of the GIS transmission and/or distribution data, we migrate a small sample of the data – typically five to ten percent. This initial migration provides real-world results and insights into your full migration, helping to accelerate your implementation through identifying any issues prior to. Our application team works on developing prototypes of the functionality required to support your workflows in parallel with the pilot data migration activities.
Phase Two: Utility Network Implementation Coordination
This phase focuses on balancing your organizational goals and business needs with the current state of your data to ensure your workflows are implemented successfully into the Utility Network model.
UDC conducts iterative data design process and modelling sessions to define critical aspects of the data schema, settings, and properties that will support your utility’s business operations. After fully configuring the subset, we provide the data, process, and workflow necessary for you to complete the entirety of the configuration.
Phase Three: Test Migrations 1–3
An iterative test process is employed during this phase to build and refine the asset package and Utility Network model structure. UDC tracks all identified issues during each iteration. We then conduct a “dress rehearsal” cutover to refine the go-live process.
Phase Four: Data Migration Checkpoint
This is the last point for refinement before moving onto the production release. End user performance, project release risk management and mitigation, and long-term maintenance of the Utility Network database are considered.
Phase Five: Data QA / User Acceptance Testing
The data is promoted to the Quality Acceptance (QA) environment for formal Data Acceptance Testing (DAT). There are two iterations to ensure a successful production process.
Phase Six: Production Release
Following acceptance, the data is promoted to a Production environment. UDC conducts a knowledge transfer session(s) with your utility to ensure your organization can manage the system independently going forward. Post go-live support will also be provided.