AWWA IMT61456

This paper introduces concepts involved in mobile software system implementations across an enterprise. Specifically, this paper focuses on the unique issues common when utility field forces are automated with mobile software systems. The Mobile Application Program Solution (MAPS) project underway for the last two years at the City of Phoenix Water Services Department (WSD) will serve as a case study to highlight the issues and approaches for such projects. The project began with intense analysis of the field operations, then development of a business case with real world return-on-investment (ROI) figures, and finally the design and implementation of a mobile computing solution to support the more than 450 field personnel in the City's combined Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection Divisions (WD/WC). The City of Phoenix retained CH2M HILL and Spacient Technologies, Inc. (SPACIENT) to develop the functional specification and deliver an enterprise mobile field computing system for WD/WC. The overall objective of the MAPS project is to deliver and record essential data and information, in electronic form, for distribution and collection field service crews to enhance customer service and to improve operational efficiency. Includes figure.