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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.

Worker in hard hat and high vis vest looking at lake - Cloud-Based-Software-for-Water-Utilities--Advantages-and-Implementation_FeatureImage
July 11, 2024
4 min read

Cloud-based software for water utilities: Advantages and implementation

Water utilities are facing unprecedented challenges today, including aging infrastructure, population growth, climate change, and regulatory pressures. To address these issues, many utilities are turning to cloud-based solutions which provide numerous advantages, including enhanced flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. Read on to learn how cloud-based software can revolutionize field operations, streamline data management, and pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for water utilities.

Storm drain with water - stormwater management visualization
July 8, 2024
4 min read

Stormwater management: Predicting flooding before it happens

With changing climate patterns and increasing urbanization, proactive stormwater management has become essential for cities worldwide. The intensity and frequency of extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and hurricanes, are on the rise, posing significant threats to urban infrastructure and public safety. As cities expand, impervious surfaces like roads and buildings prevent water from naturally soaking into the ground, exacerbating the risk of flooding. 

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!

Aerial image of a water treatment facility - The Lifecycle of field data collection for water infrastructure
June 3, 2024
4 min read

The Lifecycle of field data collection for water infrastructure

For water utilities, the process of gathering accurate and comprehensive field data is critical in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of water systems.

Technician performing site assessments on solar panels using Fulcrum with Esri GIS
May 21, 2024
5 min read

Esri GIS for site assessments on solar and wind farms

As the world continues to grapple with the pressing challenges of climate change and energy sustainability, the importance of renewable energy has never been more pronounced. Solar panels and wind turbines are at the forefront of this movement, providing clean, sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. However, the successful deployment of these technologies depends heavily on precise planning and strategic placement. This is where Esri GIS and field data collection platforms such as Fulcrum come into play, offering unparalleled tools for identifying optimal locations and ensuring the success of renewable energy projects.

Abstract image of electrical grid over landmass, representing the synergy of ESRI data collection
May 15, 2024
4 min read

Ensuring grid stability with high-quality Esri data collection

The electric grid is a complex and dynamic network that requires continuous monitoring and management to ensure stability and reliability. In this context, high-quality data collection is not just beneficial but essential. Esri’s GIS technologies transform how electricity utilities manage their infrastructures. By integrating Esri with Fulcrum for data collection, utilities can enhance their operations across various facets such as grid management, asset management, and outage response. This blog post explores the impact of this integration on ensuring grid stability.

Worker performing utility field operations using a tablet at a solar energy installation
May 2, 2024
6 min read

Safeguarding efficiency: a look at utility field operations

In our day-to-day lives, whether we’re brewing morning coffee or binge-watching our favorite series, we’re dependent on seamless utility field operations.

Utility technician performing work on a high voltage line The Importance of electric-utility partners and collaborations
April 30, 2024
3 min read

Importance of electric utility partnerships and collaborations

Utility partnerships are playing a crucial role in the modernization and sustainability of energy systems worldwide. By bringing together diverse stakeholders and leveraging shared resources and expertise, these collaborations are enhancing service delivery, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth, while also addressing some of the critical challenges of energy transition and environmental sustainability.

Man performing an inspection of electrical equipment using a tablet
April 26, 2024
4 min read

Documenting electrical equipment in the field using multimedia

The old adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” takes on new meaning for field technicians documenting maintenance and restoration needs of electrical equipment. Multimedia has revolutionized the way we document electrical equipment in the field. Now, using high-resolution photos, videos, and audio, we’re capturing details like never before. These tools bring the intricate details of maintenance and restoration to life, from spotting a tiny crack on a transformer to hearing the subtle sounds indicating a potential issue. 

Man performing an inspection at an industrial plant - Role of AI in predictive maintenance for utilities
April 8, 2024
7 min read

Role of AI in predictive maintenance for utilities

Utility management is rapidly evolving, largely due to the implementation of predictive maintenance techniques. By harnessing technology to anticipate and address equipment issues before they escalate, we’re moving towards a more proactive approach. This shift not only streamlines operations but also cuts down on costs and unexpected downtimes.

Wind farm - Mapping-the-Wind--Harnessing-Wind-Turbine-GIS-Data_FeatureImage
April 2, 2024
5 min read

Mapping the wind: harnessing wind turbine GIS data

Wind energy stands at the forefront of sustainable power generation strategies. As interest in renewable energy grows, the wind sector is evolving through technology and data analytics. The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data is central to this change, optimizing turbine performance and sustainability. Mapping wind with GIS data goes beyond knowing wind patterns. It involves using precise insights for efficiency and reliability in wind power. This blog discusses how field data, combined with geospatial technology, drone inspections, and sensor monitoring, is transforming wind energy use, making it a cornerstone of sustainability.

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.

A man performing utiliyt pole data collection using a digital platform
March 19, 2024
3 min read

Using a digital inspection platform for utility pole data collection can prevent tragedies

Securing the integrity of the electrical grid is a paramount task that begins with rigorous inspections of utility poles. These pole inspections are critical for preventing service interruptions and averting disasters. The devastating Smokehouse Creek fire in Texas this February, the largest in the state’s history, starkly demonstrates the consequences of neglect. Affected homeowners allege that Xcel Energy failed to properly inspect and maintain a wooden utility pole, which ultimately splintered and snapped at the base. The utility has not specified the exact cause of the fire, but does concede that it was sparked by a failure in its infrastructure.

Aerial view of cloud forest as visual representation of the importance of renewal reclamation of ecologically compromised sites
March 18, 2024
3 min read

Renewable reclamation through GIS data collection software

Renewable resource reclamation represents an innovative progression in environmental management, focusing on the revival and rejuvenation of ecosystems previously impacted by human activity. By infusing sustainability into the recovery of these landscapes, there’s an emphasis on ecological balance and the thoughtful repurposing of natural resources. A pivotal element in these endeavors is Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, providing the advanced tools necessary for detailed data collection and insightful analysis, which are the cornerstones of any successful reclamation project.

Two electrical cooperative utility workers performing an inspection during a blackout by a utility tower
March 12, 2024
3 min read

How Fulcrum powers up electrical cooperatives

The electrical cooperative industry faces many challenges, including operational inefficiencies and security vulnerabilities. Fulcrum’s advanced field data collection and process management platform offers a promising solution to these issues. By integrating innovative technology with on-the-ground tasks, Fulcrum transforms the way electrical utilities manage their field operations, resulting in increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved service reliability.

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.

Man performing tree trimming for utility vegetation management
February 27, 2024
3 min read

Utility vegetation management: a key player in preventing power outages

Utility Vegetation Management (UVM) is the strategic management of tree and vegetation growth around electrical power lines and infrastructure to prevent power outages and ensure the consistent delivery of electricity, playing a vital role in safeguarding the reliability and safety of our power supply.

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. 

Image of Fulcrum app showcase its GPS tracking in the field feature
February 20, 2024
2 min read

Using GPS tracking in the field when collecting data

The ability to accurately track and record data in the field is essential for a wide range of industries. From environmental research to construction, the precision and efficiency provided by GPS tracking have transformed how field data is collected, analyzed, and utilized. This article explores the integration of GPS tracking into fieldwork, focusing on a new feature from Fulcrum, a leading field data management tool.

Utility worker performing work on wooden pole
February 16, 2024
4 min read

Electric utility readiness for evolving FCC pole attachment standards

Broadband deployment is essential for modern societies, driving economic growth, enhancing communication, and enabling access to a wealth of information and services. Central to the expansion of broadband infrastructure are pole attachments – a seemingly mundane yet crucial aspect of network deployment that involves attaching cables and equipment to utility poles. Recognizing the importance of these attachments, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed a series of reforms aimed at streamlining the process and addressing longstanding issues that have impeded broadband deployment.

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.

Four field team workers consulting a tablet to do field data collection -Accommodating field data with Enterprise GIS implementation
February 6, 2024
4 min read

Accommodating field data with your enterprise GIS implementation

As a GIS Manager, you’re at the forefront of merging the traditional with the modern, ensuring that your organization leverages the best of spatial insights to optimize its operations. The implementation of an Enterprise Geographic Information System (GIS) is a pivotal step in transforming your business’s field data capabilities. But how can you seamlessly incorporate this technology to maximize its impact?

Worker performing inspection on electric tower using GIS data collection
January 22, 2024
5 min read

Time-saving GIS data collection techniques

Field operations in numerous industries rely heavily on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect and manage spatial data. The intricacies of mapping terrain, analyzing environmental data, and planning infrastructure development depend on the accuracy and efficiency of GIS. Given the vast amounts of data needed and the rapid pace at which decisions must be made, field technicians are under constant pressure to perform tasks quickly without sacrificing the quality of data.

Water treatment plant near a nature reserve and the ocean - water asset management challenges and solutions
January 18, 2024
4 min read

Water asset management: challenges and solutions

Water assets, crucial elements like rivers, lakes, and treatment plants, are the cornerstone of environmental health and human well-being. This blog navigates the world of water assets, highlighting their importance and the challenges in managing them – and the role of digital data collection platforms like Fulcrum in streamlining these efforts. These technological advancements not only enhance efficiency but also ensure sustainability, marking a significant step forward in how we interact with and protect our water resources. Join us in exploring the integration of technology and environmental stewardship.

worker performing a field inspection using GIS SaaS and data collection software on a tablet
January 16, 2024
4 min read

Accelerating operational flexibility with FieldTech and GIS SaaS integration

Embracing cutting-edge solutions in today’s fast-evolving operational landscape is essential, and one such innovation is the convergence of Field Technology (FieldTech) — technology built for and managed by field teams — with Geographic Information System (GIS) Software as a Service (SaaS) offerings. These integrated platforms are revolutionizing industry workflows by providing unprecedented agility and capacity to adjust to market and environmental alterations quickly and effectively.

Person in field doing work using data collection software on a tablet
January 9, 2024
5 min read

Maximizing ROI with data collection software for utility companies

Utility companies may hesitate to embrace a SaaS (Software as a Service) field data collection software and management solution due to the substantial investments in their current methods, from pen-and-paper to complex in-house digital platforms. These entrenched systems represent significant sunk costs in time, money, and training – investments that may be painful to put aside in favor of a SaaS solution, despite the benefits.

Worker performing a field inspection using a tablet - GIS Project Management Best Practices and Challenges
January 4, 2024
4 min read

GIS project management: best practices and challenges

GIS data is the cornerstone of planning decisions. GIS data helps us understand the relationships between a location and the surrounding environmental and social context. In sectors like utilities, environmental engineering, telecom, and others, GIS project managers use geospatial data to create accurate models and forecast possible risks. Project managers plan and oversee the completion of all major GIS-related projects. They depend on accurate field data to create timelines and allot resources. GIS project management is a complex job, with many moving parts. In addition to creating the overall workflow plan and timeline, the project manager also interacts with clients, oversees the budget, and supervises work 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.

Sinkhole on a concrete roadway - sinkhole repair
December 19, 2023
4 min read

How sinkholes crash the underground fiber optic party

As the telecom world races towards better connectivity, underground fiber optic cables have become the go-to solution. However, this advancement comes with an unintended consequence – the potential risk of sinkholes. As these high-speed conduits burrow deeper into the earth, they intersect with a delicate subterranean balance, occasionally disrupting natural water flows and contributing to soil erosion. This can lead to the formation of sinkholes, presenting a new set of challenges for urban planners and telecommunication companies.

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.

Water infrastructure as image about overhauling America's aging water infrastructure
December 11, 2023
3 min read

Overhauling America’s aging water infrastructure

Water touches every aspect of modern life. Obviously, drinking water is vital, but we also need plentiful water for agriculture. The manufacturing and technology sectors use water for cooling purposes, as does power generation. In fact, America uses more water than almost every other nation on earth. However, the infrastructure that provides, cleans, and delivers that water is crumbling.

Urban water runoff as visual for Why every community needs a stormwater management plan
December 7, 2023
4 min read

Why every community needs a stormwater management plan

Urban environments, by their very nature, create ideal conditions for excessive stormwater runoff. As these areas expand rapidly, alongside the evolving challenges of climate change, the need for comprehensive stormwater management becomes more critical. These expanding cities, with their unpredictable shifts in climate patterns, significantly impact stormwater systems in complexity and scale.

High voltage power line as visual for innovations in electrical infrastructure maintenance and repair
December 4, 2023
4 min read

Technology innovations in electrical infrastructure maintenance and repair

The global use of electricity continues to grow every year. In fact, electricity usage in 2022 was more than three times higher than in 1980, and demand continues to climb. A robust plan for electrical infrastructure maintenance is essential to safely meet the needs of our interconnected world.

A man inspecting a wind power plant - Maximizing Efficiency with GIS-Enhanced Data Collection
November 27, 2023
4 min read

How utility companies will use Fulcrum to gain an actionable advantage in 2024

As 2023 draws to a close, utilities face considerable headwinds, finding themselves squeezed by regulator-driven demands for sustainability and environmental care, and grappling with escalating service delivery costs. In this challenging landscape, GIS-enhanced data collection emerges as a crucial tool for utilities, aiding in balancing these demands while maintaining operational efficiency.

A squirrel on an electrical wire - Prevent Wildlife-Causing Power Outages
November 21, 2023
4 min read

Prevent wildlife causing power outages with data collection software

Electricity is the lifeblood of modern society, powering everything from homes to hospitals. Yet, this critical service is surprisingly vulnerable to the natural world, particularly the untamed antics of wildlife. Every year, curious critters are the cause of widespread power outages, leading to significant economic losses and reliability issues for utilities. As electrical utilities seek innovative solutions to mitigate these interruptions, data collection software emerges as a pivotal tool in the strategic arsenal against wildlife-causing power outages. This blog explores an interesting use case for such software: managing wildlife interference effectively to ensure the protection of both animals and the reliability of utility services.

Top Three Tech Tools for Water Disaster Management
November 20, 2023
3 min read

Top three tech tools for water disaster management

As the global climate continues to fluctuate, water disasters are on the rise. The United Nations (UN) recently reported that harmful water events top the list of the world’s most destructive disasters. The number of water-related disasters has increased by a factor of five over the past 50 years, driven by climate change and weather extremes (and also, at least in part, higher population density and better reporting). And while the death toll of these events have leveled out over the years due to better warning systems, the economic toll of the crises has not. Over the same time period, costs related to water emergencies averaged out to $202 million USD per day.

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.

High voltage utility wires - Strengthening Electrical Poles with Fulcrum
November 13, 2023
4 min read

Strengthening electrical poles for future storms with Fulcrum

With the alarming increase in extreme weather events, electrical poles face an unprecedented challenge. Damaged poles can incapacitate a grid, leaving communities in darkness, cutting off communication, and stalling vital services. However, the solution is not costly-full scale replacement of the many poles that make up a grid. Instead, utilities are much better off reinforcing poles and implementing preventative measures. Fortunately, field data collection and inspection software can help utilities strengthen electrical poles, grids, and services against future storms.

Fallen tree and power line in the aftermath of severe weather event and how using geolocation data makes a difference in disaster response
November 10, 2023
5 min read

Geolocation data in disaster response: how Fulcrum is making a difference

The power of where in emergencies

In the critical moments following a disaster, the ability to pinpoint and act upon geolocation data can be lifesaving. For utility companies, this information is the compass that directs the restoration efforts in a landscape where traditional landmarks may no longer exist. Geolocation data provides clarity amidst the confusion, enabling a swift return to normalcy.

Person holding a tablet with a marker showing a pinned geographical location for GIS mobile data collection
November 9, 2023
3 min read

How GIS mobile data collection connects teams across distances

What is mobile GIS data collection?

You might be familiar with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a technology that has been a cornerstone for capturing and analyzing spatial data. GIS mobile data collection with platforms such as Fulcrum takes this foundational technology to the next level. It’s not just about creating maps or storing data; it’s about instantaneous capture and sharing of geospatial information.

2023 geography gift guide wrapping paper for People Who Love Geography
November 8, 2023
5 min read

2023 gift guide for people who love geography

Four years have flown by since we last navigated the globe for a geography gift guide, and it’s high time for an update! Whether you’re a map enthusiast, a trivia titan, or just looking to jazz up your desk with a spinning Earth, our latest roundup of geographically great gifts will have you plotting a course to the nearest ‘Add to Cart’ button. From puzzles that challenge your flag knowledge to mugs that serve up a side of humor with your morning brew, we’ve charted a course for presents that promise to elevate your latitude and attitude in equal measure. So, grab your compass and let’s embark on a journey through the best gifts for the geography lover in your life – no passport required!

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

What is geospatial data collection?

Imagine merging the where with the what to make smarter decisions – that’s the essence of geospatial data collection, a cornerstone in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Risk and resilience management of stormwater systems
November 3, 2023
4 min read

Risk and resilience management of stormwater systems

Protecting us from floods and pollution, stormwater infrastructure keeps our communities and economies safe and healthy. However, standing at the forefront of a rapidly-changing world – from unprecedented urban growth to extreme climate events – they have come under increasing strain in recent years.

A drop of water as a symbol of the need for water quality technology and monitoring
October 31, 2023
5 min read

Water quality technology: A GIS-enabled approach to monitoring water quality

Not only is clean and safe water vital for public health, but failing to ensure water quality also has wide economic and environmental consequences. Water quality technology has traditionally involved cumbersome or slow sampling and testing methods, often delaying the identification of contaminants. However, Geographic Information System (GIS) has now made real-time water quality monitoring more simple, effective, and accurate than ever.