A utility contractor in Oman, specializing in meter replacements and troubleshooting for electricity and water utilities, encountered operational roadblocks that hindered their efficiency and growth. Their reliance on manual processes for task assignments, data collection, and stock management made it difficult to scale their projects and maintain productivity. With hundreds of locations to cover weekly and limited field teams, the contractor required a comprehensive solution to address inefficiencies and streamline their workflows.

Client Overview‍

The customer, an experienced utility contractor, faced significant operational challenges while executing their first major meter replacement project. Their reliance on manual processes for task assignments, stock management, and data collection led to inefficiencies, escalating costs, and missed opportunities for growth. Despite having the financial capacity to scale, their lack of streamlined operations made expansion unfeasible.

‍The Challenges

1. Manual Task Assignment and Routing
   Hundreds of locations needed to be covered weekly, but assigning tasks manually was time-consuming and prone to errors.
2. Inconsistent Stock Management
   Meters frequently went missing, and the lack of tracking mechanisms created financial losses.
3. Inaccurate Data Capture
   Errors in manual data collection delayed invoice payments and created disputes with their principals.
4. Scalability Issues
   Without efficient systems, the company struggled to handle larger workloads or take on new contracts confidently.
5. Complex Workflows
   Troubleshooting and calibration required capturing extensive data, which was difficult to manage manually.

The Solution

Fieldmaster provided a comprehensive solution tailored to the customer’s needs:

1. Automated Task Assignment
   Tasks were allocated automatically based on live field team locations and organizational priorities, saving time and reducing errors.
2. Real-Time Stock Tracking
   A dedicated stock management module provided complete visibility of new and removed meters, enabling real-time updates on inventory status.
3. Error-Free Data Capture
   Mandatory validations and automated data entry reduced errors, ensuring accurate reporting and billing.
4. Custom Workflows for Complex Tasks
   Dynamic workflows with skip logic simplified troubleshooting and calibration, accommodating even the most detailed requirements.
5. Performance Dashboards
   Real-time dashboards enabled the management to monitor field performance, analyze costs, and make data-driven decisions.

Implementation Timeline

• Day 1: Conducted a deep dive into the customer’s processes, challenges, and goals.
• Day 3: Deployed the first version of task assignment and data validation workflows.
• Day 10: Launched the stock management module for real-time inventory tracking.
• Day 15: Integrated automated data pull mechanisms to minimize manual data entry.
• Day 21: Delivered automated reports, streamlining proof of work and invoicing processes.
• Day 23: Rolled out additional workflows for troubleshooting, calibration, and reporting.

Results Post-Implementation

By early 2023, the customer had fully transformed their operations:

1. Improved Efficiency
   Automation saved hundreds of hours in task management, stock reconciliation, and reporting.
2. Accurate Stock Management
   Complete visibility into inventory eliminated discrepancies and enhanced operational reliability.
3. Timely and Accurate Billing
   With accurate data capture and reporting, invoice disputes were eliminated, and payments were received faster.
4. Market Leadership
   Efficient execution and reliable reporting earned the customer larger contracts and solidified their position as a market leader.

The customer specializes in replacing outdated meters with new AMR (Automated Meter Reading) and prepaid meters. Despite their technical expertise, operational inefficiencies posed challenges that hindered scalability and profitability.

Conclusion

Fieldmaster.ai provided the utility contractor with a tailored, all-in-one solution to address their operational challenges. By automating processes, improving data accuracy, and enhancing visibility, Fieldmaster empowered the company to expand its operations, increase profitability, and secure a leading position in the utility sector.

Fieldmaster.ai continues to support the customer with ongoing enhancements, ensuring their systems remain scalable, efficient, and aligned with future goals.

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