An accurate base map is crucial for the development of utility FM/AM; we use a digital ortho-photogrammetric foundation to deliver high resolution pictures and precise topography. Our base maps contain typical planimetrics including road centerlines, edges of pavement, building outlines, tree coverage and basic hydrology.

Each entity in one of our utility GIS user groups begins with a basic system and adds their specific utility data to customize their map. The adoption of a standard base map facilitates group development and data sharing across a common system. Through a coordinated GIS, participating entities can share the advantages of accurately-informed decisions, faster response times, reduced field work, effective utility data management and, most importantly, cost sharing..

As communities change and electric systems age, updates and expansions become necessary. Hiring outside engineering firms to plan modifications to systems they have no experience with is inefficient and the final outcome may not be exactly what is needed and desired. An up-to-date map of the system allows the people who are most familiar with the system, those who work with it daily, to visualize the situation and plan for the future, thus saving money and ensuring the best possible outcome.

Natural disasters or other large disruptions can do severe damage to electric systems and have the people responsible for operating them scrambling to adjust and repair. Accurate mapping is absolutely invaluable in these situations to quickly locate system failures and plan for restoration.