JOHN TARLETON RURAL CONNECTIVITY
To ensure that they are set up for success, operators need to empower their teams and field crews – particularly in rural areas.
them with that particular problem. This scenario in a rural environment, risks even more time and effort being wasted. Teams must be supported by software that are not only built with mobility at their core, but easy and flexible enough to be understood by teams that are trained to execute a wide range of tasks. For example, providing software which enable teams to work online and offline from anywhere, without interruption is essential in rural areas with no access to online services. Such mobile solutions provide field crews with the full network model in an offline mode so that they can continue to do their jobs and sync their updates when they have a connection. Furthermore, using Mobile Data Collection tools, information gathered in the field can be captured and integrated into the central database, ensuring everyone has access to the latest updates. This workflow can then be automated, freeing up valuable time for field teams to focus on strategic tasks. Providing field workers with quality digital software resources gives them an intelligent view of the network so they have the information they need to solve unexpected problems and proactively manage network issues. For instance, a full network model gives the field crews the network location and connectivity to analyse and solve problems without relying on office staff or having to make additional trips to gather more information or receive approvals. Additionally, having the ability to create clear task workflows for specific field activities such as fibre connection ensures that correct procedures are followed and all necessary data is collected. This structure also empowers workers to go ‘off-script’ and use their initiative when the situation requires as there is an understood overall framework. Operators such as Alncom have found this approach very fruitful for their business. Their team of designers and multiskilled field engineers use purpose- built fibre network management software to streamline planning and construction processes, optimise rural fibre deployments, and operate in remote, offline locations with access to network
Field engineers must be armed for success.
data on mobile devices. Their technology strategy is tightly linked with the training and management of multiskilled office and field teams to ensure the network is implemented quickly and efficiently. As a result, their field engineers are able to connect homes and businesses with a single site visit. UNDERPINNING OPERATIONS WITH A ROBUST DIGITAL STRATEGY When it comes to bridging the rural connectivity divide, ensuring that teams are multi-skilled and that they have the right mobile software to support them are two incredibly important factors, but they should be considered as part of a broader digital strategy to successfully manage the full lifecycle of the network. Prioritising connected systems, and one source of truth that is accessible from anywhere enables everyone within teams to have the same accurate view of a network, and also provides the foundation for more efficient processes. It is far easier and more effective for teams - especially multi-skilled teams - to use automated planning and design tools, or create new digital workflows for any network process if they have access to any information they need
pertaining to the issue they are facing and can be confident of the network data quality. The nature of projects and efforts related to expanding connectivity in rural areas is unpredictable and often challenging. Creating a digital strategy that prioritises this foundation at the core is key to ensuring that teams, and field workers specifically, are prepared for any outcome.
John Tarleton, UK Sales Director at IQGeo.
www.opticalconnectionsnews.com
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ISSUE 37 | Q2 2024
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