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Oil and Gas

Read Fulcrum blog posts focused on the oil and gas industry, covering field data collection, inspections, and workflows for energy teams.

Worker performing field inspection using a tablet - How to build data visualizations with geospatial technology
December 28, 2023
4 min read

How to build data visualizations with geospatial technology

An added benefit to our increased ability to collect geospatial data is our equally heightened ability to display it. When we combine data collection solutions with geospatial technology, we can enhance how our data is communicated. In effect, we can create dynamic data visualizations.

Worker performing field inspection at wind farm - visualization of GIS data management from digital maps to landscape realities
December 27, 2023
4 min read

GIS data management: from digital maps to landscape realities

Geography influences a vast array of business, government, and personal decisions. The “how” and “why” of processes and developments often come down to the particulars of place. The physical realities of a location are important, obviously, but so are the social specifics. The environmental context is also vital. Understanding not only what all those attributes are but also how they interrelate requires a thorough collection of geospatial GIS data.

Field teams using a data collection platform on a tablet - Fulcrum for the Field and Beyond data sheet for GIS data collection
December 26, 2023
<5 min read

Fulcrum for the field and beyond

Fulcrum stands out as a dynamic data collection platform, expertly tailored for the varied needs of both field and office teams across industries. In the field, it simplifies data gathering and improves productivity. In the office, it boosts the use of data to make more informed decisions. This dual capability makes Fulcrum an essential tool for organizations aiming to enhance their operational performance and strategic depth.

Worker performing a field inspection using a tablet - Field data collection made simple data sheet_FeatureImage
December 15, 2023
<6 min read

Field data collection made simple

Discover the transformative power of the Fulcrum data collection platform. Download the data sheet below to explore how Fulcrum redefines the efficiency and accuracy of field operations. This is more than just a tool; simple field data collection with Fulcrum is a strategic asset that propels your field activities into a new era of productivity.

A man performing field data collection
December 13, 2023
5 min read

Boosting operational productivity in the field with digital data collection

Ramping up operational productivity in the field is a major goal for any GIS Manager, and it hinges on one crucial factor: quality data. Forget the old-school methods of scribbling notes in a notebook. The game has changed with the advent of data collection technology. This isn’t simply about the replacement of outdated tools with new technology. Instead, it’s a fundamental shift in how we handle field data.

Fulcrum Insider - November 2023
November 28, 2023
<3 min read

Fulcrum Insider, Issue 31

Fulcrum Insider – November 2023

Driving Geospatial Innovation in Field Services with Fulcrum
November 16, 2023
4 min read

Driving geospatial innovation in field services with Fulcrum

You know how, when you’re in the field, you sometimes need to step back to get a little perspective? It’s similar with software. We recently took a few minutes to host a webinar, Chart new territory with lines and polygons in Fulcrum, to help our customers understand how our geospatial innovation and capabilities fit in with our purpose as a company.

An infographic explaining What is Geospatial Data Collection?
November 6, 2023
7 min read

What is geospatial data collection?

Geospatial data is information connected to a specific location on Earth, such as coordinates, addresses, boundaries, assets, routes, imagery, or map layers. Teams use it to understand where things are, how they relate spatially, and what actions are needed in the field for inspections, infrastructure, environmental work, utilities, and planning.

Fulcrum newsletter issue 30, October 2023
October 31, 2023
<4 min read

Fulcrum Insider, Issue 30

Fulcrum Insider – October 2023

GIS lines and polygons demo video
October 13, 2023
5 min

Fulcrum GIS lines and polygons demo video

Explore Fulcrum’s capabilities with our concise five-minute GIS lines and polygons demo. This engaging tutorial goes beyond basic instruction, showcasing how to revolutionize your field data collection. It uses practical scenarios, like power pole inspections, to demonstrate the real-world application and effectiveness of Fulcrum’s GIS-first data collection platform.

Fulcrum's New Frontier: Bringing Lines and Polygons to Life
October 11, 2023
4 min read

Lines and polygons in Fulcrum

I’m excited to share some big news with you today. We’ve brought lines and polygons to Fulcrum, a move that’s been high on our clients’ wish list for quite some time. This isn’t just a new feature; it’s a big step forward in making GIS-oriented data collection and field operations more straightforward and effective, a goal I had in mind when I joined Fulcrum four years ago. And believe me, we’re just warming up.

Fulcrum Insider September 2023
September 23, 2023
<4 min read

Fulcrum Insider, Issue 29

Fulcrum Insider – September 2023

Screenshot of Fulcrum GIS field data collection software on PC monitor, tablet and mobile phone
September 6, 2023
<6 min read

Leading the way in GIS field data collection software

GIS software captures, stores, and interprets geographic data across locations, boundaries, and spatial frameworks. Fulcrum is field data collection software that puts that geographic intelligence to work in the field. In turn, field teams use Fulcrum to bring GIS data and mobile data collection into operations.

The Fulcrum Insider - Issue 28, August 2023
August 23, 2023
<4 min read

Fulcrum Insider, Issue 28

Published August 2023

Say goodbye to summer and say hello to the Fulcrum Insider August newsletter! Discover thought-provoking content, updates, and more. From the advantages of SaaS data collection to in-depth IT insights and our Summer G2 awards update (hint: it’s impressive 😉), we’ve got your summer wrap-up covered. Don’t miss out on these enlightening highlights – download below!

Fulcrum Insider, Issue 27
July 18, 2023
<4 min read

Fulcrum Insider, Issue 27

Published July 2023

Hello Fulcrum Family! As summer heats up, we’re thrilled to bring you our July newsletter packed with the coolest thought leadership and exciting success stories from two of our incredible clients. Get ready to be inspired in this sizzling July edition – and see you next month!

Two Great Lakes Wellhead Workers Performing Wellhead Compliance Inspection
June 30, 2023
5 min read

Tech-driven wellhead compliance: Great Lakes Wellhead

The Challenges

Changing regulations requires aggressive inspection schedules with severe penalties for delays and non- compliance.

Underground storage facilities are often obscured by the changing landscape of aboveground structures, making location of assets a challenge.

Outdated, incomplete accounting of assets means that clients are unaware of potential risks or compliance issues, increasing exposure and hindering planning efforts.

Multiple regulators requiring different inspections can result in many different trips to the same site for wasted time and effort.

Key Outcomes

Fulcrum allows inspections to be performed quickly, with time savings of 80% or more.

Fulcrum captures the geographic data automatically, so location information is independent of surface landmarks.

With accurate reports and raw data made possible using Fulcrum, clients are made into “subject matter experts” of their own assets to mitigate risk and allow for more informed decision making.

Using Fulcrum, GLW can combine trips and perform multiple different functions and inspections while on site at one location.

New federal regulations spurring increased inspections
“While our gas clients drill for gas and produce it year round, there is little demand for it in the summer. So, in order to keep the price for natural gas steady, and ensure there is enough of it to get its customers through the winter months, the gas is stored in formations underground until it’s needed,” explains Iburg. “Over the years there have been incidents with these underground gas storage installations, including leaks and even explosions.” These recurring dangers have prompted the United States Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration of the US Department of Transportation to enact new safety standards for underground natural gas storage facilities, starting with inspections.

Two women performing wellhead inspection with Fulcrum helping them in navigating environmental compliance challenges
June 30, 2023
<6 min read

Navigating complex environmental compliance challenges

Great Lakes Wellhead, Inc. (GLW) is a contractor serving the oil and gas industry with exploration and production (E&P), wellhead maintenance, gas storage, and wellhead disposal services. Around half of its business focuses on the gas and storage sector, while the other half caters to E&P projects. To aid in its highly regulated and potentially dangerous work in environmental compliance, Great Lakes Wellhead adopted Fulcrum data collection software in 2020.

Fulcrum Insider, Issue 26
June 14, 2023
<5 min read

Fulcrum Insider, Issue 26

Published June 2023

After 25 issues, we are proud to announce the rebranding of our newsletter as The Fulcrum Insider, giving readers the same great thought leadership content with a refreshed look. Check us out each month to get the inside scoop on all things Fulcrum!

Fulcrum's Integration with Esri webinar
June 9, 2023
60 min

Fulcrum launch: integration with Esri

Embark on an exploratory journey with our on-demand webinar, highlighting Fulcrum’s integration with Esri. This year marked a significant milestone for us at Fulcrum, as we successfully integrated with Esri’s renowned SDK. Now, we invite you to explore the impactful results of this integration, showcasing a new era in location-oriented solutions.

May 16, 2023
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 25

Published May 2023

Did you know that May is National Barbecue, Biking, and Hamburger Month? We decided to jump on the bandwagon and designate May as “Month of Mapping” to celebrate the continued expansion of Fulcrum’s integration with Esri. Read on to learn more, check out some new thought leadership materials, and learn about two upcoming events. Happy May Month of Mapping!

April 14, 2023
< 1 min read

Toolbox Talks

The Simple Machine, Issue 24
April 12, 2023
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 24

Published April 2023

This month it’s all about working together! Read below to learn about our new partnership with American Society for Safety Professionals (ASSP), new features stemming from our Esri integration, plus thought leadership blogs, infographics, and webinars.

The Simple Machine, Issue 23
March 12, 2023
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 23

Published March 2023

Read on to learn what “spring cleaning” we’ve been up to, including an updated look for our website, new infographics, and more!

Worker performing a field inspection using a tablet using field data collection app- combating inspection fraud
March 9, 2023
9 min read

Best practices for creating mobile apps for data collection

Designing mobile data collection apps with intention helps teams capture cleaner, more valuable information in less time. When apps are focused and easy to navigate, data collectors work faster, and the results become easier to trust and analyze. Fulcrum’s platform combines a drag-and-drop interface and powerful form builder with geolocation capabilities, including GPS coordinates, custom maps, and geotagged photos. It works in a web browser or in offline data collection mode, so teams capture real-time data even without connectivity. These flexible tools support clarity, scalability, and stronger outcomes across every project. Teams evaluating the best field data collection app should look for smart forms, custom forms, offline forms, precise GPS location capture, media capture, and enterprise security that can support the complete field operations workflow.

Engineer or technician using tablet showing challenges when digitizing field inspections and how they may be overcome with a field inspection app for Gps Field Testing App Gis Data Management
February 20, 2023
<2 min read

Common problems when digitizing field inspections (and how to overcome them)

Are you considering the transition to digital field inspections but apprehensive about the challenges that lie ahead? Don’t let uncertainties hold you back from embracing the future. Our comprehensive infographic dives into the world of digitizing field inspections, addressing common obstacles and offering actionable strategies to ensure a seamless transition for your team.

The Simple Machine, Issue 22
February 12, 2023
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 22

Published February 2023

Check out our updates about Esri, our client TREKK, and more. Thanks for reading!

January 31, 2023
60 min

Fulcrum Update: Integration with Esri™

Watch a demonstration of Fulcrum’s integration with Esri’s ArcGIS Online!

The Simple Machine, Issue 21
December 12, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 21

Published December 2022.

Read below for some of our hot takes to keep you warm as the weather grows colder (or, in the case of our mates Down Under, getting hotter!). Happy holidays and a prosperous 2023 to all our Fulcrum friends!

October 12, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 20

Published October 2022.

It’s officially Spooky Season! If your safety, quality, field ops, or data collection processes give you nightmares, we’ve got the treats to help in the way of some informational resources. Happy Halloween, all!

September 12, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 19

Published September 2022

It’s September, and for millions of kids, school is back in session. In the spirit of the new school year, we have some fresh new thought leadership and learning resources to share. Happy Autumn!

August 24, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 18

Closing the loop for safety, quality, and maintenance inspections. Published August 2022.

August 8, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 17

A data-driven field inspection program. Published July 2022.

Two constructrion workers wearing safety gear consult a tablet to do a safety inspection - Developing A Data Driven Field Safety Program Feature
July 7, 2022
<2 min read

Developing a data-driven field safety program

How digital safety field inspections allow for constant learning, rethinking, and upgrading of the process in each iteration

June 23, 2022
< 1 min read

Mobile Data Collection App

June 22, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 16

ASSP Safety 2022. Published June 22, 2022.

Construction workers consulting a tablet to perform work at a construction site - The Simple Machine Issue 15 - field inspection process
May 22, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 15

Getting started with Fulcrum Academy online learning platform. Published May 25, 2022.

Blue collar man doing software training using a laptop - Step Up Your Game With Fulcrum Academy Feature
April 26, 2022
<3 min read

Step up your game with Fulcrum Academy

Explore the Fulcrum Academy user-friendly tutorial platform

The Simple Machine Issue 14 featuring launch of Intelligent Team Automation
April 22, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 14

Fulcrum introduces Intelligent Team Automation. Published April 20, 2022.

Worker using tablet to perform inspection at tall utility tower - Simple Machine Issue 13
March 20, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 13

Introducing new capabilities to make field inspections a team sport. Published March 23, 2022.

February 20, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 12

Combating burnout in the construction industry. Published December 8, 2021.

January 20, 2022
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 11

Using technology to make safety inspections less painful (and more powerful). Published January 18, 2022.

Female industrial worker performing digital safety checks on machines in a large industrial factory
January 5, 2022
<13 min read

Using technology to make safety inspections less painful (and more powerful)

Move beyond the perception of safety inspections as OSHA busywork: how inspections keep your workers safe and protect your bottom line.

December 20, 2021
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 10

Worker safer, working smarter. Published December 8, 2021.

June 19, 2021
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 9

Four approaches to creating location-aware apps. Published June 17, 2021.

May 20, 2021
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 8

Turning everyday actions into actionable insights with location-based data. Published May 20, 2021.

A vehicle maintenance log is a simple yet essential tool to document and track all maintenance activities
April 16, 2021
<3 min read

Vehicle maintenance log

Download this free vehicle maintenance log to track fleet service history to avoid vehicle downtime.

Man doing work on a building - feature image for Simple Machine Issue 7
April 16, 2021
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 7

Preventing incidents, protecting workers, and preserving your bottom line. Published April 15, 2021.

March 29, 2021
< 1 min read

Job Hazard Analysis App

March 26, 2021
<3 min read

Root cause analysis report template

Use this form to analyze and determine the exact cause of a problem or accident on the job site.

March 25, 2021
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 6

Harnessing the power of location-based data, published March 18, 2021.

February 25, 2021
<5 min read

The Simple Machine, Issue 5

Protecting your people and assets, published Feb. 18, 2021.