May 12, 2021

This article was originally authored by Locana, which is now part of TRC.

In preparing for Utility Network Migration, taking an intermediate approach will allow you to resolve some key points. Utility Network Migration will run smoother if you build a “sandbox environment” and begin to 1) prioritize features 2) explore licensing options and 3) practice moving data.

3 Simple steps to prepare for utility network migration

Previously, we discussed the importance of preparing for Utility Network Migration. Although there are decisions to be made about architecture, database platforms, security, and much more, preparing your data is the most important activity as you prepare for Utility Network Migration. We described three simple steps you can take to get started:

  1. Profiling your data
  2. Remediating your data
  3. Addressing model complexity

Now that you’ve completed these steps, what’s next? Perhaps you are still apprehensive about Utility Network Migration and are looking for an intermediate approach? The intermediate approach calls for building a Utility Network “sandbox environment” and designating a few individuals to dig into the data and functionality. Taking this step will provide you the opportunity to prepare a project road map, an implementation plan, and a change management plan for Utility Network Migration.

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Playing in the sandbox

The Utility Network Migration “sandbox environment” provides the opportunity to play around with your most critical data and workflows with little to no risk. Once your “sandbox environment” is set up, make a plan to complete the following things to really solidify your preparation for migration.

When planning a Utility Network Migration you will want to prioritize which features to work on first. The scope of a full migration may be overwhelming, however focusing initially on a few key features will help you get a better return on your investment. Here are a few prioritization tips:

  • Tip #1: Geographic Subset — start with a smaller area of interest rather than the complete network.
  • Tip #2: Upstream to Downstream — start with features that will become subnetwork controllers and work your way downstream from there.
  • Tip #3: Operational State — Start with features that represent the operational state of the network, for example switchgears in electric systems (see graphic below).
  • Tip #4: Reporting — Start with high priority reporting features and compare report results between source data and Utility Network Migration data.

 

When executing a Utility Network Migration there are critical licensing concerns. Versions 10.8 and beyond are licensed through ArcGIS Pro while earlier versions are available via ArcGIS Enterprise. Each Utility Network Management Extension will get you 50 Utility Network User Type extensions to be assigned to named users. Alternatively, each ArcGIS Desktop license translates to one Utility Network User Type extension. Your “sandbox environment” will provide you an opportunity to lock down your licensing needs.

With your priorities set and licensing in place, you can start to practice migrating data. If you have ETL’s in place, you can consider modifying a copy and remapping them to Utility Network data models. If you don’t have existing ETLs, you may be able to use ArcGIS geoprocessing tools or the Data Interoperability Extension. In other cases, you may need Safe Software’s FME spatial ETL tools to get data out of your source system (see the table below for applicable data processing tools).

Source System ArcGIS
Geoprocessing		  Esri Data
Interoperability		 FME
Esri ArcFM • • •
Other Esri Formats • • •
GE Smallworld     •
Intergraph     •

 

An example source systems and ETL tool compatibility.

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Ready to go all in

After executing the 3 Simple Steps and then “playing” in the sandbox, you are ready to start moving your data. You can now effectively begin the process of Utility Network Migration.

Anything you can do to create a repeatable process will pay big dividends in the future. A repeatable process will enable you to get a new cut of data and re-run the process to compare the results. This is also a great time to think about your data validation process. A validation process will ensure a successful migration of your data.

Data is the foundation of the Utility Network. Executing a successful Utility Network Migration is a significant endeavor which is primarily dependent on your data readiness. Following the 3 Simple Steps outlined and then playing with purpose in your “sandbox environment” will ensure that you are on the road to success.

Remember, it’s all about the data!

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