FuturaGIS is an ESRI ArcMap based application that was developed by FuturaSystems, Inc. for use in the electric utility industry. FuturaGIS allows the end user (the electric company) to not only see where their electric distribution lines run, but also show point locations of additional facilities such as transformers, switches, poles and meters.
GIS
in the utility industry accomplishes many tasks. First and foremost, it serves as a map of the
system. Unlike a paper map, electronic
maps can be updated daily giving line crews a complete and accurate view of the
system. Through the use of attribute
data, engineers can determine where specific customers or facilities lie. They can plan for right of way clearances by measuring the length of primary conductor line or by importing vegetation
layers. Engineers can balance the electric
load by using calculations to determine the number customers using a power
source and locating the proper places to install protective devices.
As
a GIS administrator of an electric cooperative, an application such as FutursGIS
is of interest to me because it allows me, as administrator to assist my company
in making informed, analytical decisions that create a more stable electric
network for our members. By advancing my
knowledge of both ArcGIS and an application such as FuturaGIS, I would like to further
my understanding of electric distribution and network analysis as it pertains
to the electric utility industry.
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