3-GIS, an Alabama based GIS software development company, has announced they’ve released their mobile software called 3-GIS Mobile 2.1 with Android compatibility. 3-GIS worked with Gas Technology Institute (GTI)—a leading research and development organization serving energy and environmental markets—and Operations Technology Development (OTD)—a partnership of natural gas distribution companies formed to develop, test, and implement new technologies—over the past 18 months to design and develop this application with specific gas industry functionality.
The 2.1 release takes users to a new level of productivity. Users can deploy this mobile application on any Android device and eliminate the need for bulky field equipment and untimely paper markings, as well as take advantage of affordable and accessible consumer-grade technology. 3-GIS Mobile will give Android users the option to work while being disconnected from a network, maintaining productivity even when connection to a cellular network is not available.
With the help of GTI, external high-accuracy GPS receivers have been integrated to allow crews in the field to capture sub-decimeter accurate data in real-time without the need for post-processing. Users can position new features directly in a GIS environment, eliminating the need for manual integration, and helping utilities decrease the collection and processing time and increasing productivity when mapping and documenting new installations and replacements.
Another new feature is the ability to integrate a Bluetooth barcode scanner. OTD led the development of a new methodology for asset tracking and traceability that has now been incorporated into ASTM Standard F2897-11a. The 3-GIS Mobile application can read the ASTM standard barcode and directly create features and populate attributes such as manufacturer, lot number, material, diameter, and component type. With this automation, manual selection of feature attributes from drop-down menus or free-form entry is no longer necessary.
Providing more than a one-size-fits-all solution, utilities can now also configure the application to meet the specific needs of multiple field user groups by using the 3-GIS Admin tool. With a single license of the application, the unique needs of different field operations within a single company can be met.
“We are excited for the release of this software and feel confident it will hold extreme value for the end user. We have invested a lot of time creating a solution that meets the emerging needs of natural gas utility companies,” says Jerry Golden, 3-GIS COO. “Over the past two years, we have performed a number of pilot projects with OTD members and have made significant improvements based on our discoveries. We will continue to work with GTI and OTD to add new functionality based on the emerging needs of the natural gas industry.”
About 3-GIS
3-GIS is a leading innovator of smart geospatial solutions and proud recipient of the 2011 Esri Partner’s Choice Award and the Esri Private Web Application Award. 3-GIS’ software for desktop and field use, takes complex GIS information and makes it simple to understand and fast to access from every level of the enterprise. www.3-GIS.com.
About GTI
GTI is a leading research, development and training organization that has been addressing the nation’s energy and environmental challenges by developing technology-based solutions for consumers, industry, and government for more than 70 years. www.gastechnology.org
About OTD
OTD was established in May 2003 as an Illinois not-for-profit company to facilitate voluntarily funded, collaborative research on issues relating to gas operations and infrastructure, with a focus on reducing operating costs, enhancing safety, and increasing the operating efficiency of natural gas distribution systems. OTD’s membership is currently 22 members, representing utilities throughout North America. www.otd-co.org
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