Data Conversion Without Establishing an AM/FM/GIS System

Introduction
This paper discusses an alternative approach to implementation of an AM/FM/GIS system where facility data is converted in advance of establishing an AM/FM/GIS system. Understanding the life, value and usage of facility data is essential to the development of an AM/FM/GIS system. In order to thoroughly understand the application of utility data users must model its relationship to the business and all of its appropriate business processes.

Traditionally, most organizations have concentrated on converting data directly into a system with complete AM/FM/GIS functionality in which the data will be used and maintained. Conversion of data often takes many years to complete. As a result some utilities have been faced with system migration even before conversion is complete due to rapid changes in AM/FM/GIS system technology.

One alternative to direct conversion into a fill power AM/FM/GIS system is to convert data into an intermediate data structure that is both less costly and based upon open systems. This paper uses Consumers Energy’s Gas Information Management Project as a case study for using an alternative approach to facility conversion.

Model Data Requirments
Modeling data requirements is one of the most important aspects of a conversion. On all data conversion projects, users should focus primarily on the life, value and usage of the data. A clear understanding of each element of data and how it is associated with different types of applications and business processes are also very important. The three major elements are:

Model Facility Data Requirements
Focus on facility data;
Focus on life, value and usage of data;
“Down Play” current systems and technology.

A complete logical data model is needed regardless of what application is being developed. Whether a utility is modeling piping systems or wiring systems, the need for data modeling is still the same. In order to facilitate construction, maintenance and operation of utility facilities systems integrators must focus on facility data lasting 50 to 80 years in the field.