BRINCK HMT PERIODIC METER REPLACEMENT

Brinck HMT metering technology periodically replaces gas, water and electricity meters for utilities companies. Brinck HMT makes appointments with residents, performs replacements with the help of subcontractors and reports meter readings for old water meters and recording data for new meters, etc., to its clients.

Situation
In the past, piles of paper with addresses and meter information were exchanged every week between technicians in the field and Brinck HMT. Brinck HMT received electronic data from utilities companies on meters to be replaced. After the data was automatically read and converted, a paper version would be distributed. Back at the office, the paperwork still created the usual headaches. Handwritten information on meter readings and serial numbers had to go back into the system, which was a time-consuming and error-prone puzzle. Not every technician displayed good penmanship.

Question
The largest part of the entire process was automated, but the records of the meter replacements carried out were the only thing still on paper. Brinck HMT approached Sigmax Mobile Solutions to automate this step and to ensure that it was seamlessly integrated with the existing automated processes, such as incoming electronic data from utilities companies and outgoing electronic reports to them. 

Solution
Sigmax Mobile Solutions developed a solution that could go into the toolbox. With this solution, the process is as follows:

• Office employees still create a schedule from the electronic data from the utility.
• They send the data via the Internet to the technicians’ PDAs, which are robust.
• The mechanics see the addresses they will visit on their PDAs.
• During the meter replacement, the technicians enter client-specific data about the meters.
• The resident signs on the screen.
• Technicians periodically exchange information between their PDAs and the office. Information can be exchanged over the Internet at the push of a button. The technician’s location in the Netherlands is irrelevant.

Hidden Yield
The implementation of PDAs in the organization means the technicians enter all relevant data on the meters immediately and correctly, which is a relief for the administrative department. The recorded information is also at hand in a small device; no more paper to get lost or stained. The technicians are happy to be rid of the paperwork. The utility also gets the electronic information on meter replacements clearly and quickly. The automated process means the final report is ready right after the last meter replacement.