September 22, 2015

Canoochee EMC Uses Technology from Futura Systems

Canoochee EMC Uses Technology from Futura Systems to Improve Operations

Canoochee Electric Membership Cooperative is taking full advantage of technology to improve the utility’s operational functions with products from Futura Systems. The cooperative has been a long term user of Futura GIS services and is well versed in the Esri ArcGIS model. The addition of FuturaStake, FuturaMobile, Field Inspector and Catalyst will improve services to members, while also streamlining the workload and improving efficiencies of the workforce. With Futura’s excellent integration to billing and accounting software, powered by SEDC, separate functions from all departments are tied together in one cohesive unit.

“Once we saw the advantages from Futura’s GIS mapping software, there was no question we wanted to continue to grow our use of technology to improve our GIS processes,” said Dean Wright, GIS Coordinator at Canoochee EMC. “This new line up of software will help us cut operational costs while improving the services to our members. It is definitely a win-win combination.”

Electronic staking was the most desired function sought with the additional software. FuturaStake joins Futura’s Mapping software built on the Esri ArcGIS platform, to offer powerful intuitive tools to create staking sheets, job estimates, and other reports from the field or office. Double entry requirements are eliminated, further reducing data entry errors. While upgrading, Canoochee EMC opted to get rolling and go mobile with field services. Using Futura’s Mobile Solutions, Field Service Representatives and Operations personnel can now connect with the office from a laptop or tablet, reducing drive time to and from the office in daily operations. Connecting the field to the office keeps customer accounts updated in a near real-time setting, improving customer service in all aspects. By adding Field Inspection Tools to FuturaMobile, Field Representatives can perform multiple inspections during the course of the day to help keep system equipment in top operating condition at all times.

Bringing it all together for Canoochee EMC is Catalyst. This dynamic tool gives key players in the utility a platform to blend all data sources in a single, graphical map view. Anything from open work orders to prepaid metering accounts can be clearly defined on Canoochee’s territory map, empowering managers with accurate information that takes the guesswork out of the decision making process and helping the utility achieve its goal of using technology to the fullest. Canoochee EMC is using technology to get ahead in the field, in the office, and everywhere in between.

About Canoochee Electric Membership Corporation

Canoochee Electric Membership Corporation is located in Reidsville, Georgia, and serves parts of nine Southeast Georgia counties. In addition, Canoochee EMC provides the Operation and Maintenance of the electric supply to Hunter Army Airfield and Fort Stewart. Canoochee EMC is a Touchstone Energy affiliated Electric Cooperative providing the best possible service at the lowest available rates. Learn more at: www.canoocheeemc.com