Smart map to slash NSW roadworks. Copyright: Esri Australia
New South Wales Land and Property Information (LPI) has launched a new infrastructure mapping system called Smarter Scheduling NSW (SSN). The system is designed to enable government agencies, utilities and councils to more efficiently coordinate infrastructure maintenance and construction, avoid multiple digs and plan ahead of schedule.
The smart mapping technology displays planned infrastructure across the state up to a decade in advance, alerting stakeholders to opportunities to coordinate in the schedule, and ensuring maintenance programs are facilitated efficiently.
The system was developed in partnership with the LPI and mapping GIS software distributors Esri Australia. GIS consultant Ebony Wicks from Esri Australia and LPI Senior Project Manager Ian Palmer unveiled the application at Directions LIVE in Sydney on 6 May 2015.
Mr Palmer said the project would reduce the stress and disruption caused by infrastructure works to communities and their local road networks.
“While there are statutory obligations on utility providers to consult road authorities about any planned road openings, there are no requirements to communicate these plans to other utility providers,” Mr Palmer said. “It is not uncommon for the same stretch of road to be dug up a number of times by different utility providers.
“This new technology encourages a more collaborative approach to infrastructure works.
“We will see reduced waste in works arising from duplicated infrastructure activity and minimised disruption to the public and business sectors.”
Ms Wicks said the same technology could be used beyond roadworks, to streamline processes and connect stakeholders across any cross-organisational projects.
“The different users can upload information to the smart map or access the system from mobile devices in the field,” said Ms Wicks. “Information can also be distributed to the public to ensure residents have a better understanding of what is happening in their area.”
Smarter Scheduling NSW will be administered by LPI and available free of charge to all until April 2016. From April 2016, Smarter Scheduling NSW will be administered by an independent third party and incur an access fee.
For further information, visit LPI’s Smarter Scheduling webpage.
