Integrating OMS and mobile enabled WMS: Synergies and challenges
Tadeo H. Schultz
Geographic Information Technology, Inc. (GeoIT)
101 Inverness Drive East, Suite 130
Englewood, CO 80112, USA
Phone (303) 708-9355 ext 119
Email: tschultz@geoit.com
Abstract
OMS (Outage Management Systems) rely on network based GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to
assist electric utility workers in the prediction and restoration of outage jobs. OMS systems require both
accurate GIS data and timely trouble call information to perform their job and must therefore
interoperate with other systems such as WMS (Work Management Systems) typically via dedicated
interfaces. WMS are invaluable tools for managing and tracking the workload and for optimizing
resource allocation problems such as matching crews to jobs in a timely fashion and then tracking their
progress. WMS systems with mobile components provide even greater benefits by extending data
gathering and processing capabilities into the field. The integration of OMS and WMS is therefore very
desirable and if it is done successfully it results in a seamless system where the OMS and WMS work
as cooperative components. This paper reviews both integration challenges and benefits. Technologies
and methodologies which can assist and streamline the integration process, are discussed. Guidelines
for successful integration are given and examples from successful implementations are presented.
Introduction
The ‘triad’ comprised by OMS (Outage Management Systems), GIS (Geographic Information Systems)
and Mobile Enabled WMS (Work Management Systems) can be of extreme value for complex
organizations such as utilities in the streamlining of their operations by providing timely and accurate
data and in the improvement of customer service and customer care. The reliance on these systems is
central to the successful operations of these organizations and therefore much attention and resources is
allocated towards the successful implementation and deployment of these systems. This paper reviews
and itemizes the primary benefits that can be realized through successful integration. Implementation
strategies are presented from the a software architecture and applications integration perspective, against
the backdrop of the constantly changing ‘technological landscape’. If one were to summarize the
benefits of the triad they could be:
Naturally these would interoperate seamlessly via networking and integration components.
