We have been working with IBM to validate parts of our Smart Grid solution with the Solution Architecture for Energy and Utilities (SAFE) framework, in order to provide pre-tested, integrated infrastructure. SAFE helps utilities accelerate Smart Grid programs and allows Smart Grid vendors to make their applications and services utility-ready.

Through the partnership with IBM, our solutions are being validated on the IBM SAFE Framework. The benefits extend throughout a utility organization with comprehensive network management, sophisticated data collection, analysis and integration, and enhanced business decision support.

For example, the integration of Maximo and Designer enables a utility to streamline the entire graphic work design process. Job requests are seamlessly synchronized between Maximo and Designer. Engineers can access a job via Maximo and perform their construction sketch in Designer — gathering Compatible Unit (CU) quantities, material, labor and miscellaneous costs while drawing their sketch. Once the job is built, as-built changes to the design are performed in Designer. This automatically updates the completed job in Maximo and the asset repository in the ArcFM GIS database. This tightly integrated system ensures an accurate asset repository, up to date network model, greatly reduced mapping backlog, streamlined workflow, faster design turn-around, and results — plus a central repository.

IBM SAFE Framework attempts to provide a standards-based software platform for a variety of utility operations, and uses elements of existing IBM software, such as WebSphere MQ, Tivoli Maximo framework, Rational, Lotus, and Information Management products.

Contact us at smartgrid@telvent.com for more information about joining the Telvent Partner Network.