Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial podcast from Distribute Tech in Dallas, highlighting the importance of data management in the utility sector. Guests Robert Brook and Brian Reed from Neara and Osmose, respectively, discuss their partnership to enhance utility data integration and decision-making. NIRA's platform creates a digital network model using various data sets, including LiDAR and GIS, to simulate asset performance under different conditions. Osmose provides detailed asset records and preservative treatments to ensure data accuracy. The collaboration aims to improve strategic resiliency plans by prioritizing asset upgrades and optimizing investment strategies.

Action Items

• [ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Discuss the process of keeping the digital network model up-to-date as utility assets change over time.
• [ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Follow up with Brian Reed on LinkedIn to learn more about Osmose's pole inspection and maintenance services.
• [ ] Explore the Neara platform and its capabilities further.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
• Scott thanks the listeners for joining and highlights the importance of industry professionals in solving global problems.
• The podcast is sponsored by Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, encouraging listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
• Scott mentions the current broadcast location at Distribute Tech in Dallas, describing it as a massive event for utilities and other related industries.

Introduction of Guests and Event Overview

• Scott introduces the guests, Robert Brook and Brian Reed, and mentions their roles in the industry.
• Robert and Brian discuss the importance of data management in the utility sector and the significance of the Distribute Tech event.
• Scott shares a personal anecdote about using Osmose services during his utility days, highlighting the reliability of their inspections.
• Robert and Brian provide background information about their companies, Neara and Osmose, and their respective roles within them.

Neara and Osmose Partnership and Data Integration

• Brian explains the partnership between Neara and Osmose, focusing on the challenges utilities face in managing data across different departments.
• The partnership aims to consolidate data into a single source, enhancing risk-based decision-making for utilities.
• Robert describes Neara's platform, which builds a digital network model using various data sets, including LiDAR and GIS information.
• The platform provides a highly accurate and engineering-based relationship between assets, enabling better decision-making for utilities.

Use Cases and Practical Applications

• Brian provides a use case for the partnership, focusing on strategic resiliency plans for Texas utilities.
• The platform helps utilities prioritize assets for upgrades, considering factors like wind loads and storm conditions.
• Scott inquires about the practical aspects of using the platform, including how utilities can access and interpret the data.
• Brian explains the self-service capabilities of the platform, allowing utilities to perform simulations and prioritize circuits and structures.

Data Management and Platform Capabilities

• Robert discusses the scalability of the Neara platform, which can handle large-scale data analysis across millions of assets.
• The platform offers a visual and interactive environment, combining GIS-style visuals with tabular outputs for easy communication.
• Scott asks about the platform's ability to handle different types of assets, including distribution and transmission poles.
• Robert explains the platform's flexibility in simulating various scenarios, such as wind conditions and vegetation management.

Ensuring Data Accuracy and Currency

• Scott raises concerns about keeping the data current, given the dynamic nature of utility assets.
• Brian emphasizes the importance of proactive data capture and regular inspections to maintain the accuracy of the model.
• Robert highlights the role of Osmose in providing detailed asset records and historical data, ensuring the platform's data is accurate and up-to-date.
• The discussion touches on the importance of change management and coordination within utilities to ensure the model remains current.

Pole Inspection and Maintenance Practices

• Brian explains the decay hazard zones and the frequency of pole inspections, depending on the region.
• The importance of preservative treatments to maintain pole strength and prevent decay is discussed.
• Robert mentions the pole degradation models developed by Osmose, which predict future decay based on various factors.
• The conversation highlights the role of these models in guiding investment strategies and ensuring the effectiveness of maintenance efforts.

Conclusion and Contact Information

• Scott asks how listeners can get in touch with Robert and Brian for more information.
• Both guests provide their LinkedIn profiles as the best way to reach out to them.
• Scott expresses his excitement about the conversation and the innovative solutions discussed.
• The podcast concludes with a reminder of the event's location and sponsor, encouraging listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.