Background
Field engineer app for power network operator
The Client
The client is a UK power network operator responsible for maintaining and upgrading overhead power lines and underground electricity cables. Driven by research, innovation, and customer service, as well as the constant changes to how electricity is consumed, the client delivers the power network to support millions of people and properties connected to the National Grid.
The Challenge
Having recently invested in Microsoft Office 365, the client wanted to utilise Microsoft’s low-code application development technology, Power Apps, to create a mobile app that would streamline some of the existing processes for its field engineers. This required dynamic forms that would allow them to digitally collect the information gathered from vehicle inspections and audits as well as reporting any performance observations or near-misses encountered.
The client had already performed the data analysis and mapped out the design requirements for four unique electronic forms to capture this information. However, Power Apps expertise was required to expand upon the capability available to individual business users. Jumar was approached because of its experience in developing complex tablet and mobile apps using the Microsoft Power Platform and its Microsoft Gold Partner status.
Benefits
By capturing data from multiple structured and unstructured sources electronically, the client was able to streamline its field processes as well as integrate its data into the necessary reporting tools.
This singular field engineer app created a one-stop shop for the field engineers to complete their surveys and eliminated several time-consuming processes. It also improved efficiency for the client and enabled vital information to be presented in a clear and concise format.
Furthermore, by consolidating several forms into one data-driven application, it reduced the dependency on multiple business owners maintaining and updating the app as and when required. The training provided by the Power Apps experts also ensured their IT team had the necessary skill set to maintain and develop further applications using the Power Platform.
Following the successful delivery of the project, Jumar continues to provide resourcing support to the power network operator.