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The Fulcrum Focus

Stay in the know with thought leadership, product updates, and latest news on field inspection and data collection topics.

View of the earth from space showing lines representing networking and interconnection - How Geoai Is Shaping The Future Of Field Operations
May 29, 2025
7 min read

How GeoAI is shaping the future of field operations

GeoAI combines artificial intelligence with geospatial data in a deep learning model to help field teams work faster, make better decisions, and stay ahead of operational challenges. This blog explains how GeoAI evolved, what it enables today, and how it’s reshaping asset management, risk detection, and resource planning across industries. It also explores practical considerations like implementation, data security, and future trends including IoT integration and adaptive machine learning.

Worker performing inspection on earth moving equipment - GIS asset management feature image
May 15, 2025
4 min read

Prevent losses by using field inspection software for GIS asset management

For companies in sectors like construction, as well as in field-oriented industries like telecom and utilities, the scope and complexity of in-house and field operations mean they’re often just squeaking by: for example, construction general contractors average a mere 4% profit margin (versus an average of 15.5% across all industries). In addition, keeping costs contained is critical for highly regulated telecoms and utilities that are subject to much scrutiny regarding profits, and, in the case of utilities, usually require government approval to raise rates.

Person holding a tablet with a marker showing a pinned geographical location for GIS mobile data collection
May 12, 2025
4 min read

How GIS mobile data collection connects teams across distances

In this article we explore how field data collection with mobile GIS cloud platforms like Fulcrum enable seamless, real-time communication and coordination between field and office teams. By capturing geospatial data instantly and sharing it across locations; organizations can make faster, smarter decisions and operate more efficiently.

Screenshot of Fulcrum application on cell phone - How Field First Platforms Extend The Value Of Arcgis solutions - feature image
May 7, 2025
7 min read

How field-first platforms extend the value of ArcGIS solutions

Learn how pairing field-first platforms with ArcGIS strengthens GIS accuracy and improves workflows, and how structured, real-time field data collection eliminates delays and integrates cleanly into ArcGIS systems.

Man in hardhat and hi vis vest performing inspection - Why Regular Field Inspection process is Critical For Operational Efficiency Feature
May 2, 2025
6 min read

Why regular field inspection process is critical for operational efficiency

Explore why regular field inspections are essential for maintaining operational efficiency across construction, engineering, and utility teams, and how a consistent, well-managed field inspection process helps teams catch issues early, improve coordination, and reduce costly delays.

Group of four envirionmental engineers performing fieldwork using a tablet - When environmental Regulations Shift, Will Your Team Be Ready Feature
April 29, 2025
7 min read

When environmental regulations shift, will your team be ready?

Find out how rapid changes in environmental regulations pressure field operations across industries like utilities, construction, and oil and gas. Discover the the operational risks of relying on outdated systems for regulatory change management, and how flexible, configurable field data collection platforms like Fulcrum ensure fast adaptation, maintain regulatory compliance during disruptions, and avoid costly rework.

Worker performing inspection on electric tower using GIS data collection
April 28, 2025
6 min read

Time-saving GIS data collection techniques

Discover how Fulcrum FieldTech improves GIS data collection or geospatial data by streamlining processes, boosting data accuracy, and enhancing team efficiency through modern, customizable, and real-time tools to address common field operation challenges.

Enhancing Gis Data Management Feature
April 1, 2025
4 min read

Smart maps & custom forms: Enhancing GIS data management

Effective GIS data management goes beyond plotting points on a map. It requires structured, accurate workflows that ensure every piece of spatial data is reliable, consistent, and useful. Whether you’re managing infrastructure, monitoring environmental changes, or tracking field assets, the ability to collect, standardize, and integrate data seamlessly is key to making informed decisions.

Electrical worker performing inspection at transmission tower using a field data collection software - Fulcrum The Missing Link Between Arcgis & Field Data Collection
March 25, 2025
5 min read

Fulcrum: The missing link between ArcGIS & field data collection

Field teams and GIS teams often seem like they speak entirely different languages. Your GIS teams rely on precise data, accurate coordinates, and timely geospatial information to guide important decisions. Field teams need straightforward, simple-to-use field data collection software that let them execute their workflows while quickly and unobtrusively capturing important data.

Five Industries Leveraging Gis for field operations with Lines And Polygons
March 11, 2025
4 min read

Five industries leveraging GIS lines and polygons for smarter field operations

Field teams across industries rely on location data to get work done. Whether they’re maintaining power lines, monitoring ecosystems, or planning new infrastructure, they need more than static maps. GIS for field operations ensures they have actionable spatial data to collect, analyze, and make informed decisions in the field.

How Ai And Gis Lines And Polygons Are Transforming Field Data Collection Feature
March 6, 2025
4 min read

How AI and GIS lines and polygons are transforming field data collection

Field teams rely on GIS to map infrastructure, assets, and environmental features, but too often, those maps don’t match reality. Pipelines, power lines, roads, and land boundaries shift over time, while GIS data lags behind, leading to costly mistakes.

Engineer performing field audit at construction site using a tablet - How To Maximize Your Gis Application For Optimal Field Management Feature (1)
February 19, 2025
6 min read

How to maximize your GIS application for optimal field management

Optimizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for field management goes far beyond basic mapping solutions. GIS optimizations focus on customization, automation, mobile integration, and clean data to transform GIS from a static storage tool into a dynamic driver of operational efficiency and smarter decision-making.

Screenshot of Fulcrum apps with Audio FastFill screen Build Smarter Tips For Optimizing Your Fulcrum Apps For Ai And Audio Fastfill Feature
February 13, 2025
3 min read

Build smarter: Tips for optimizing your Fulcrum apps for AI and Audio FastFill

Fulcrum Audio FastFill is transforming how field teams collect data, offering faster, hands-free workflows through AI-powered voice input. Before this feature became widely available, early adopters were already putting it to the test on their custom Fulcrum apps. Their feedback has given us valuable insights into how organizations can optimize their forms and workflows for this game-changing tool.

Man using phone to do intelligent voice dictation for field data capture - Audio Fastfill Voice Powered Field Data Capture Feature
February 12, 2025
5 min read

Audio FastFill: Field data capture using voice dictation

Fulcrum Audio FastFill is a voice-powered AI feature that replaces manual typing with real-time, structured voice dictation for field data capture. It solves common problems in the field by turning spoken input into accurate records, helping teams move faster and stay focused on their work.

Cellphone screens showing Fulcrum app - Avoiding The Pitfalls Ensuring Digital Transformation Success In Field technology adoption Featureimage
January 17, 2025
3 min read

Successful digital transformation starts with smarter field technology adoption

Digital transformation promises to revolutionize field operations, unlocking unprecedented efficiency, precision, and insight. But as exciting as this future sounds, the path to get there can be fraught with challenges. From unclear goals to resistance among team members, even the most promising field technology initiatives can falter. The good news? By anticipating these pitfalls, your organization can sidestep them and pave the way for meaningful, lasting change.

Screenshot of Fulcrum map overlay on a tablet - What’s Fueling Digital Transformation In Aec Feature
January 7, 2025
5 min read

What’s fueling digital transformation in AEC?

The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry faces unique challenges: complex projects, tight deadlines, and ever-increasing client demands. But a digital revolution is underway, offering solutions to these challenges and reshaping how we design, build, and manage the world around us. This transformation is leading to a fundamental rethinking of workflows, collaboration, and the very nature of construction itself. To understand why, let’s explore the forces driving this digital revolution and how it’s changing the AEC landscape.

Worker with hard hat using drone to inspect wind farm - Ai Powered Uavs Are Transforming Utility Inspections Feature3
January 6, 2025
4 min read

How AI-powered UAVs are transforming utility inspections

The landscape of utility field inspections is rapidly evolving. AI-powered UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicle), aka drones, are taking center stage, offering a safer, faster, and more efficient alternative to traditional ground-based methods. 

Man performing an infrastructure inspection using a drone - Infrastructure Inspections Redefined By Technology Feature (1)
December 20, 2024
4 min read

Infrastructure inspections redefined by technology

Infrastructure inspections have always been essential to maintaining the structures that connect and sustain modern society. These field inspections are critical for bridges, pipelines, power grids, and roadways, but they have traditionally been slow, expensive, and risky. Teams conducting inspections often rely on labor-intensive processes that involve scaling dangerous heights or working in hazardous environments. These methods are not only inefficient but often fail to capture the full picture needed for accurate maintenance planning.

Screenshot of AEC Fulcrum app on a tablet and cell phone - Fulcrums Approach To Efficiency For Aec Consulting Firms Feature
December 11, 2024
4 min read

Fulcrum’s approach to efficiency for AEC consulting firms

Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) consulting firms face growing challenges, from managing complex projects to maintaining compliance and delivering on increasingly tight deadlines. Manual workflows and disconnected tools can often exacerbate these pressures, creating inefficiencies that slow progress and increase costs.

Utilities worker inspecting electrical infrastructure - Gis And Asset Management Building Smart City Solutions feature plus GeoAI
December 9, 2024
4 min read

GIS and asset management: Building smart city solutions

Modern cities face mounting challenges. Populations continue to grow, infrastructure ages, and the demand for sustainability rises. For construction managers, field operations teams, and project leaders, this creates a clear need for smarter, more efficient ways to manage resources and infrastructure. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and asset management provide the tools to meet these demands head-on.

Worker performing an inspection of concrete using tablet - incorporating AI for infrastructure inspections
December 5, 2024
3 min read

Enhancing infrastructure inspections with AI and mixed reality

Reinforced concrete inspections are tough work. Inspectors squint at cracks, measure with gauges, jot down notes, and hope their instincts hit the mark. It’s slow, inconsistent, and overdue for an upgrade. With aging infrastructure presenting growing challenges, traditional visual assessments alone don’t cut it.

Field worker in safety vest inspecting a storm drain using a cell phone to record observations and fill out mobile inspection forms - How Field Ai Advances Preventive Maintenance Efficiency Feature
December 2, 2024
4 min read

How field AI advances preventive maintenance efficiency

Preventive maintenance is a cornerstone of asset management, and for many organizations, integrating AI into their maintenance programs seems like a no-brainer. Yet, while businesses race to harness AI’s analytical power, they’re often overlooking a critical factor: their data. In fact, many teams are falling into a common trap—focusing on AI’s potential without addressing the data quality issues that undermine its effectiveness.

Five essential applications of GIS in engineering and consulting feature - screenshot of Fulcrum on two cell phones
November 21, 2024
4 min read

Five essential applications of GIS in engineering and consulting

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become indispensable in engineering and consulting, offering a unique combination of spatial analysis, data visualization, and decision-making tools. Platforms like Esri’s ArcGIS provide engineers and consultants with robust tools for spatial analysis and decision-making, making GIS an integral part of modern workflows. Whether it’s improving project planning, enhancing design accuracy, or advancing sustainability, GIS empowers professionals to work smarter and deliver better outcomes. Here are five key ways GIS is driving transformation across the industry.

A worker using a mobile phone to perform AI FastFill dictation for field data collection - Embracing A New Era In Field Data Collection With Fulcrum Feature
November 12, 2024
4 min read

Embracing a new era in AI-supported field data collection and process management with Fulcrum

Greetings, everyone. Today, I’m thrilled to share an important step forward for Fulcrum, one that brings to life our vision of enabling field efficiency and unifying the field with the office. 

Man in hi vis vest and hard hat performing field inspection using phone - Ai Driven Field Data Collection Tools, Techniques, And Trends Feature
November 8, 2024
4 min read

AI-driven field data collection: tools, techniques, and trends

AI-driven field data collection makes fieldwork smoother, faster, and error-free. With modern tools at their fingertips, field teams now capture real-time insights and act on data directly in the field. Industries like utilities, engineering, telecom, and environmental management are getting actionable information on the spot, cutting out delays and transforming raw data into instant solutions.

Field engineer using a tablet to perform a field inspection - Why Real Time Field Data Syncing Is Crucial For Field Engineers Feature
November 7, 2024
5 min read

Why real-time field data syncing is crucial for field engineers

Field engineers work under constant pressure to provide accurate, up-to-date insights from the field. Delays or outdated information can lead to costly mistakes, stalled projects, and missed deadlines. Real-time data syncing has evolved into an essential tool that keeps projects moving, enhances accuracy, and supports seamless decision-making across teams. In this blog, we’ll explore how real-time syncing elevates the role of field engineers, helping them deliver results with speed and precision.

Aerial image of aftermath of hurricane - The Role Of Gis And Aec In Reconstructing Western North Carolina After Hurricane Helene
October 28, 2024
5 min read

The Role of GIS and AEC in Hurricane Helene recovery

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, western North Carolina faces monumental challenges—and opportunities—in rebuilding. Flooding, landslides, deforestation, and contaminated waterways are just some of the issues communities now confront. The impact goes beyond physical infrastructure; it reaches into the heart of local ecosystems, leaving scars that will take years to heal. However, with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry working together, the region has a path to rebuild stronger and smarter, creating resilient landscapes prepared for future disasters.

A rusting electrical or transmissiong tower - Modernizing Aging Infrastructure How Smart Cities Are Leading The Way Feature
October 28, 2024
4 min read

Modernizing aging infrastructure: How smart cities are leading the way

Urban infrastructure is in serious trouble. Decades-old bridges, pipes, roads, and grids are buckling under the weight of growing populations and years of neglect. Potholes that swallow cars, bridges hanging on by a thread, water mains bursting—this isn’t the future anyone had in mind. For the engineers, city planners, and field ops teams on the front lines, aging infrastructure is like playing a never-ending game of whack-a-mole with crises popping up faster than they can handle.

Image of Fulcrum app using Esri Arcgis Enterprise Integration on two cell phones
October 15, 2024
4 min read

Fulcrum’s Esri ArcGIS Enterprise integration: Enhancing control and efficiency for self-managed GIS

When it comes to managing your GIS systems, control is everything. Esri ArcGIS Enterprise gives you full command over your GIS infrastructure, and now with Fulcrum’s integration, that control extends seamlessly to your field data collection. Whether it’s GIS, IT, or field operations, Fulcrum ensures that your data stays secure and fully within your grasp—just the way you need it. 

Geospatial Data Solutions In Modern Urban Planning
October 10, 2024
4 min read

Geospatial data solutions in modern urban planning

Urban planners face increasing pressure to create more efficient, sustainable, and adaptable cities. As populations grow and resources become more strained, planners need accurate, real-time data to make decisions that will shape the future. Geospatial data solutions are revolutionizing urban planning by offering a detailed view of the spatial relationships within a city. This helps to optimize land use, improve infrastructure, and enhance transportation networks.

Image of the globe with network lines as a representation of GIS - How Fulcrum’s Gis Integration Makes Arcgis Data Management Easier Feature
October 7, 2024
4 min read

How Fulcrum’s GIS integration makes ArcGIS data management easier

For GIS professionals, managing geospatial data can be a complex, multi-step process. Fulcrum’s seamless integration with ArcGIS simplifies this by allowing teams to collect and sync data directly into the ArcGIS platform. This eliminates manual data transfers, reduces errors, and speeds up data management for faster decision-making. With Fulcrum, field teams and GIS analysts collaborate easily, ensuring accurate, consistent data across both platforms.

Three construction workers around a table reviewing plants - Imgis IMGIS Field Data For Smart AEC Field Project Management Feature
September 30, 2024
4 min read

IMGIS for smart AEC field project management

Managing architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) projects has always been a high-wire balancing act. Coordinating site inspections, managing project timelines, and ensuring safety compliance are just a few of the challenges project managers face daily.

Screenshot of Fulcrum GIS on cell phones - How Gis Is Shaping The Future Of AEC feature
September 25, 2024
3 min read

How GIS is shaping the future of AEC

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are giving architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals clearer insights that drive smarter decisions. GIS transforms complex spatial data into a usable format, helping teams visualize site conditions, understand risks, and plan with greater precision. By adding location-based information to project workflows, GIS makes it easier to avoid costly mistakes, manage environmental factors, and optimize resources. As the complexity of projects increases, GIS is becoming a crucial tool for navigating site challenges, urban planning, infrastructure management, and disaster preparation.

Worker in high vis vest performing a field inspection on solar panels using a tablet and using AI in fieldwork
September 23, 2024
4 min read

From manual to AI: The evolution of fieldwork practices

The fieldwork landscape is changing fast, evolving from outdated manual processes into a domain driven by AI-powered solutions. What used to be a slow, error-filled, paper-based process has evolved into a system driven by digital precision, efficiency, and real-time decision-making. As the leap from paper to tech, and now to field AI, transforms how on-site operations are conducted, the result is not just faster processes, but smarter, more reliable workflows.

Two workers performing inspection at a wind farm use a tablet with digital app to help with standardizing field processes
September 11, 2024
4 min read

Standardizing field processes saves time and reduces mistakes

Field operations often suffer from inefficiencies and errors due to inconsistent processes. Standardizing your field processes is a powerful way to mitigate these challenges, ensuring smoother workflows, reduced mistakes, and faster project completion. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of standardizing field processes and how this approach can transform your operations.

Applying AI to field ops - screenshot of Fulcrum with object recognition AI on mobile phone
September 9, 2024
4 min read

Applying AI and field data collection to revolutionize field ops

If you’re not quite on board with the idea of practical AI, you’re not alone. Between generating nightmare images of uncanny valley mutants with too many (and too bendy) fingers and news stories of AI missteps and hallucinations, it’s easy to dismiss AI as another tech novelty. 

Screenshot of Fulcrum doing geospatial field data collection - How Fulcrum Aligns With Geospatial Industry Trends Featureimage
September 5, 2024
4 min read

How Fulcrum aligns with geospatial industry trends

The geospatial industry is experiencing a profound shift, driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving user expectations, and an unyielding demand for more intelligent workflows. The Trimble State of the Global Geospatial Industry 2024 report highlights several key trends shaping the future of this field—from the essential need for reliable field data collection to the decisive move towards Software as a Service (SaaS) models. 

Loose coupling, easy integrations with Fulcrum
August 20, 2024
2 min read

Loose coupling, easy integrations with Fulcrum

At Fulcrum, we pride ourselves on enabling loose coupling in your workflows. But what does that mean? Loose coupling integration allows different systems and components to work together seamlessly, without heavy dependencies on each other. This flexibility makes it easy to integrate new features or replace components without disrupting the entire system.

Using-Fulcrum-to-Automate-Data-Workflows_FeatureImage - screenshot of Fulcrum on tablet
August 14, 2024
6 min read

Using Fulcrum to automate field data workflows

Efficient data management is essential for success in field operations. Fulcrum, an industry-leading field data collection and process management platform, offers robust tools to automate data workflows, enhancing both efficiency and accuracy. This blog explores the benefits and processes of automating data exchanges between Fulcrum and other platforms, providing practical steps and real-world examples to guide users in implementing these integrations.

Image of Fulcrum on screens of different devices as visualization of why you should integrate field data
July 16, 2024
4 min read

Why you need to integrate field data collection with other systems

Efficient and accurate data collection is the backbone of many businesses, especially those with teams in the field. Integrating your field data collection platform with other systems can significantly enhance your operations. This integration not only boosts efficiency and accuracy but also provides numerous other benefits that can transform how your business functions. Here, we explore these benefits and outline steps for a successful integration.

Ground collapse as example of global subsidence
June 21, 2024
3 min read

Addressing global subsidence risks: how field data collection can help

Subsidence is the gradual sinking or settling of the Earth’s surface, driven by both natural forces like soil compaction and human activities such as groundwater extraction and mining. Threatening more than two billion people globally, The effects of subsidence include cracked building foundations, reduced aquifer capacity, damaged infrastructure, increased coastal flooding, and habitat deterioration. With urban expansion leading to increased groundwater extraction and climate change intensifying drought conditions, the need to monitor and mitigate subsidence has never been more critical.

A utility worker performing maintenance on a utility pole - balancing customization and standardization in field ops
June 20, 2024
3 min read

Balancing customization and standardization in field processes

Achieving a balance between customization and standardization in field processes is essential to maintain flexibility while ensuring consistency and efficiency. Here’s how to strike that balance effectively.

Screenshot of Fulcrum on different devices - Unveiling-New-Fulcrum-Tools-at-the-2024-esri-user-conference_FeatureImage
June 6, 2024
2 min read

Unveiling Fulcrum tools at the 2024 Esri User Conference

As we gear up for the 2024 Esri User Conference, Fulcrum is excited to showcase several groundbreaking features and recent developments that enhance geospatial field data collection and management. These innovations promise to streamline field operations and improve data reliability, setting a new standard for GIS integration and field data handling.

Screenshot of field software application on a tablet and a mobile phone
June 4, 2024
3 min read

Best practices for implementing new field software

Implementing new field software can significantly enhance operational efficiency and data accuracy, but it requires careful planning and execution. To ensure a successful implementation, here are five best practice tips to guide you through the process!

An aerial view of the earth as visualization of geospatial technology
March 27, 2024
4 min read

The intersection of geospatial technology and energy management

Geospatial technology is revolutionizing various industries, particularly energy management. As the cornerstone of sustainability and efficiency, geospatial technology – comprising Geographic Information Systems (GIS), satellite imagery, and drone technology – offers profound insights and optimization capabilities across sectors. Optimizing energy resource management not only addresses immediate operational efficiencies but also steers the global sustainability agenda. This blog explores the powerful connection between geospatial technology and the energy sector, highlighting how it can drive transformation and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Fulcrum Strengthens Geospatial Capabilities with Esri Bronze Partnership graphic image
March 11, 2024
2 min read

Fulcrum strengthens geospatial capabilities with Esri Bronze partnership

Hey there, Fulcrum community! Jim Grady here, and I’m very excited to share some news that marks a significant milestone for us at Fulcrum and, more importantly, for you, our valued users. Our journey with Esri has taken an exciting turn, and I’m here to dive into what this means for all of us.

Man performing field data collection using field workflow automation on a tablet
February 29, 2024
3 min read

Exploring field workflow automation in geospatial industries with Fulcrum

Industries such as environmental consulting and utility services are increasingly recognizing the practical benefits of Fulcrum’s platform for field data collection and process management. Fulcrum’s approach focuses on rapidly evolving existing workflows to improve efficiency. Join us as we explore case studies from GeoForce, Great Lakes Wellhead Inc. (GLW), DIEHLUX, and TREKK Design Group to see firsthand how Fulcrum’s technology streamlines tasks and boosts overall efficiency with field workflow automation.

Visualization of Fulcrum app on different devices showing how it is able to perform geospatial data integration in-app
February 28, 2024
3 min read

Fulcrum’s role in geospatial data integration

Geospatial data integration involves combining geospatial data (which is data related to specific geographic locations) from various sources into a single, comprehensive dataset. This process typically requires harmonizing different data formats, coordinate systems, and data models. The integrated data can then be analyzed and visualized more effectively, providing a comprehensive geographical perspective. This is particularly useful in fields like urban and rural development, environmental management, and construction, where understanding spatial relationships and patterns is crucial for decision-making and planning.

fulcrum's central role in integrated office and fieldtech ecosystems
February 21, 2024
4 min read

Fulcrum’s central role in integrated office and FieldTech ecosystems

Even though you might not have heard the term “FieldTech ecosystem,” if you’re with an organization that collects data outside of an office setting, you have one. 

Geo Week 2024 Exploring the Future of Geospatial Intelligence
February 14, 2024
3 min read

Geo Week 2024: Exploring the future of geospatial intelligence

Geo Week 2024 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT). The event showcased significant advances in airborne, terrestrial, and commercial 3D technologies. In response to evolving geospatial and built world professionals’ needs, it brought together experts, innovators, and enthusiasts from around the globe. As a result, it served as a melting pot of technology, ideas, and advancements in the field. Moreover, it emphasized the fusion of traditional geospatial methods with the latest trends. Additionally, it integrated AI and big data analytics into mapping and spatial analysis.

Woman doing work in the field using a tablet - What is FieldTech?
February 10, 2024
4 min read

What is FieldTech?

FieldTech refers to the specialized technology and systems designed for outdoor operations and fieldwork. Unlike traditional office-based technologies, field technology solutions are crafted to meet the unique challenges faced by teams working in diverse and often remote environments. This encompasses a wide range of hardware and software, from GPS, sensors, drones, and GoPros, to data collection and asset management to real-time communication, all tailored to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and safety of field operations.