Project Goal

The asbuilt data collection process was developed to automate the manual process of collectiong asbuilt field notes for new construction. The manual process involved the entering of data on three separate maps and a very intensive manual QA\QC process. This manual process has created a large backlog of map posting work. The new approach was to use a single seat license of ArcEditor and ArcFM software on a tablet PC. This Pc would be connected to a Trimble ProXH. This process allows a GIS Editor to disconnect a portion of the GIS using the Disconnected Editing features of ArcGIS 9.1. The Editor utilizes a tablet PC which is connected to a Trimble ProXH device. The Editor collects features using the GPS Analyst extension that allows the collections of GPS points as attributes. This data is run through a custom QA\QC process that was developed by Laclede. The data is then GPS post processed to bring it to sub-foot accuracy and loaded back into the enterprise GIS as a version and posted to the production database.

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Business Problem Solved

Decrease the cycle time it takes to map gas facilities into the GIS after they are completed in the field by the construction crews. Increase the quality of the map product through a more consistent checking process.

Technology Implemented

The Technology that is used for this process is a Pansonic Toughbook CF-18. A Trimble Proxh is connect through Bluetooth technology. ArcGIS 9.1 and ArcFM 9.2.

Development Team Biography

Mark Vlaich, Supt. Construction Services - Laclede Gas.
Mark has worked at Laclede Gas Company for 19 years. He graduated with B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Missouri – Rolla in 1986. Mark has worked in field GIS for the five years. He is responsible for the maintenance of all facilities information for Laclede records in GIS. His group is also responsible for all relocation design work, review of all outside contractor work and estimating and redesign of facility conflicts. He was project manager for the Enterprise-wide GIS Implementation Project to completely replace the pen and ink manual mapping process at Laclede Gas Company. Mark is a member of GITA and former president of the St. Louis Regional Joint Utility Association.

Frank Pendleton, GIS Coordinator, Laclede Gas Company
Frank has been working in the GIS field for nearly 8 years now. He has moved his way up from a GIS Technician to his current position as GIS Coordinator. He manages edits made by 15 GIS Specialists in versions on ArcSDE. He is also the pioneer for the new As Built Process that was launched in the fall of last year. Frank received a Bachelors Degree in Geography with a Specialization in GIS in 2000. Frank was also an annual member of ILGISA (Illinois GIS Association) from 2001 until 2004. He is an avid golfer who enjoys all outdoor activities and music.