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Symology awarded ESRI New Business Partner of the Year 2008

Scott Hutchinson, Marketing Manasger (left) accepts the 2008 ESRI New Business Partner of the Year Award on behalf of Symology. Presenting the award is Jack Dangermond, president and founder of ESRI.Symology Ltd, the UK's leading supplier of spatially enabled Street Works and Highway Asset Management Systems, has been selected by ESRI as 2008 New Business Partner of the Year.

The award is presented each year to a select group of ESRI business partners worldwide in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the geographic information systems (GIS) industry and to the success of the ESRI Business Partner Program.

"This award is a testament to the success of our partnership with ESRI," said Scott Hutchinson, Marketing Manger, Symology. "It validates Symology's continued leadership in providing solutions that can utilise ESRI's ArcGIS software for the Street Works and Highway Asset Management markets. We are committed to supporting our clients with faster and more sophisticated ways to manage assets, coordinate works and integrate their data for optimal decision-making."

Scott Hutchinson, Marketing Manasger (above left) accepts the 2008 ESRI New Business Partner of the Year Award on behalf of Symology. Presenting the award is Jack Dangermond, president and founder of ESRI.

Symology welcomes Three Valleys Water Plc

Symology is pleased to welcome Three Valleys Water as new customers. The water company purchased Insight Street Works Register and the Insight Universal Interface for automated Works Notice creation and update directly from their Works Management System.

The Insight solution was installed early in January 2008, complete with a history of Works records since 2003. The new version of Insight was delivered at the end of February, providing full TMA and New Code of Practice compliance, enabling the company to be in a position go live during March in time to meet the new requirements on 1 April.

Symology delivers the UK's first live TMA Systems

Symology - suppliers of spatially enabled Street Works and Asset Management Solutions are pleased to announce the full release of its Traffic Management Act (TMA) compliant - Insight Version 2.5 system.

The Insight system went on full release to Utility Customers on Monday 25 February, and the new version of the software was successfully installed for live operation at Bournemouth and West Hampshire Water and Gas Transportation Company within the first two days of release.

The Insight 2.5 system will continue to send EToN 3 notices up until the 31 March and then will switch to sending EToN 4 notices from the 1 April. After the switch-over date the system will still provide the capability of dealing with on-going EToN 3 notices.

Phil Clothier (IT Project Manager at Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water) says "Bournemouth and West Hampshire Water PLC is delighted to be one of the first organisations in the country to have a full TMA compliant system up and running. With the introduction of EToN 4 on 1 April and Fixed Penalty Notices from the 12 May, it was crucial to us that we had a comprehensive solution in place to ensure that we comply with the requirements and to minimise our FPN liability. We have been using Symology's systems for a number of years and every time there has been a change in legislation, they have consistently delivered systems on time with appropriate training and documentation."

Scott Hutchinson, Symology’s Marketing Manager, commented "Symology’s leading position, in being ready for the TMA, has been achieved because of considerable investment over the last three years in a complete re-design of the noticing software to fully meet the demands of the TMA era. When the EToN Technical Specification was finally approved in November, the Insight TMA system was ready and waiting for the finalised noticing formats to be slotted in. Our Insight system goes on full release to our Local Authority customers on Monday 3 March, so all our customers will have access to a TMA compliant system before 1 April".

Symology delivered a test system, with associated Web Service Interfaces to a number of customers on the 10 January. This exercise was spearheaded by National Grid, as part of a collaborative arrangement with Symology. National Grid led a team, which also included Thames Water, Wales & West Utilities, United Utilities, Northern Gas Networks and Fulcrum Connections. The London Borough of Camden also took part in the exercise.

Scotia Gas Networks, Bournemouth and West Hampshire Water, Portsmouth Water and Three Valleys Water were also provided with a beta version of the software. Like the other utilities, they have been using the system for both trial running and for testing interfaces with their Works Management systems.

Insight generated EToN 4 OD Batch Files 1st to pass IA validation

Operational District batch files generated by Insight 2.5 in EToN 4 format, are fully validated by Intelligent Addressing.

Both Utility and Local Authority OD Batch Files were generated and passed validation. Intelligent Addressing's Mr Nick Turner said "Well Done, Symology is the first organisation to submit fully validated OD files."

ES Pipelines Ltd choose Symology for TMA

ES Pipelines Ltd, who provide residential and business customers throughout Britain access to mains natural gas, has become Symology’s latest customer using the fully managed “Pay-per-Works” system. This service is aimed at organisations that have a limited number of Street Works operations each year.

The fully managed service provides subscribers with the ability to record and monitor the progress of works, with full 2-way transmission of all EToN Notices, Comments and Inspections. The powerful, built-in exception reporting tools help minimise the costs that can occur with possible Section 74 Overstay charges. With the introduction of Fixed Penalty Charges for any incorrect or late notices, this service can significantly reduce the potential liability resulting from errors that can easily occur with a manual system. The service provides full compliance with the new Street Works Code of Practice, TMA and the new Web Services based data interchange.

Peter Peart, Operations Engineer at ES Pipelines, comments "We do a relatively small number of works each year in England & Wales and could not justify the cost of purchasing and administering a Street Works System ourselves. This managed service provides us with a cost effective and fully compliant Street Works solution, at a reasonable cost but without the hassle of system administration, or worries about changes to the Code of Practice. We are already using Insight in Scotland so it made sense to use the same system in England & Wales. It is clear that Symology’s staff have in-depth knowledge of Street Works legislation and understand our business processes".

John Allison, Business Development Manager at Symology, said "We are delighted to welcome ES Pipelines to the ever increasing number of Symology customers. Our 'Pay-per-Works' Managed Service provides the perfect solution for organisations that only carry out a small number of works per year. The fact that we are able to demonstrate a fully comprehensive TMA system, and offer an assured implementation path to meet the requirements on time is testament to the extensive development that Symology has carried out over the last two years."

Traffic Management Act - Web Services Seminars

To help customers face the challenges of the new TMA EToN 4 requirements, Symology Ltd is running a series of free TMA Web Services Seminars.

Click Here for Further Details

Symology announce end user Street Works TMA Training Dates

Symology have announced dates for hands-on Street Works/TMA training courses.

See The Events Page for further details.

Southend-on-Sea choose Symology for TMA & Asset Management

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council has purchased almost all of the Integrated Asset Management modules to build a full management system. Insight was installed in early January, starting with Street Works. The Street Works Notice files received from the utilities since April 2007 were back loaded, using a mechanism to ensure they were imported in the correct sequence, giving the council a flying start. By the start of the new financial year it is planned to have Cyclic Inspections in place to allow Inspectors to carry out Highway Inspections, record any defects and progress these into Works Orders, which in turn will be registered in the Street Works Register. More importantly it enables the Inspector to record “No Defects Found” recording the fact that inspection was carried out. Whatever the outcome of the inspection, the next inspection is automatically prompted in accordance with the Inspection Cycle. Further plans to integrate with the corporate Customer Call Centre, introduce Mobile Devices and build a full Highway Asset Register will follow shortly.

"Insight replaces a locally produced Street Works system that was labour intensive" said Martin Osborne at Southend-on-Sea, "We have already benefited from the automated import of Notices and the extensive exception reporting built in to the application to manage Street Works in the Borough and we will be able to discharge our Network Management Duties more effectively. We are confident that Symology will deliver a system that is fully compliant with the TMA and New Code of Practice, in time for us to be ready for the 1st April 2008.

"We are already looking into introducing Insight into other areas of the Council’s operations and discussing how we can introduce other modules, such as the integrated GIS, and the full UKPMS condition survey analysis and needs based budgeting".

Portsmouth Water Ltd choose Symology for the TMA

Portsmouth Water Ltd has purchased the Insight Street Works Register, strengthening the position of Insight Street Works in the Water Industry. The system was installed in December 2007 and included embedded GIS utilising their existing corporate GIS facility with ESRI’s ArcGIS products. This new system replaces the Street Works noticing that had been embedded in Portsmouth Water’s Works Management System (WMS). Portsmouth Water staff are now making changes to their WMS to output records using the Insight Universal Interface in a batch process to create and update Street Works Records.

Pauline Mousley, IT Services Manager for Portsmouth Water, led the project to evaluate the Street Works systems from various suppliers and commented "We were impressed with the way Symology's Street Works system operated and the provision of a fully documented Universal Interface will significantly reduce the development of the link with our Works Management System. We received very positive feedback from the Insight Customers we contacted, even those Symology had not suggested. We are confident that Symology will deliver a system that fully complies with the TMA in time".

Implications of not meeting the TMA deadline for Utilities

With the April 1 TMA deadline looming large, some Utility companies are asking themselves what problems could result if they are not in a position to conform to the new EToN 4 noticing.

The answer to this question is that there are many potential complexities comprising both legal and technical issues. This paper attempts to provide a summary of the implications.

Please note that Symology is only able to offer general guidance on the technical issues; legal advisers should be consulted with regard to the implications of any particular course of action that is being considered.

View/Download this Paper (PDF)

Symology - Leading the Way on TMA

Symology has delivered the first TMA system. A beta version of Insight 2.5, with comprehensive coverage of the entire Street Works noticing life-cycle, was delivered to the first customers on 10 January.

National Grid is spearheading a trial exercise on TMA noticing, as part of a collaborative arrangement with Symology. NG is leading a team, which also includes Wales & West Utilities, United Utilities and Fulcrum Connections. Initially the testing team will be interchanging notices, using the new web services protocols, with Symology’s own managed service test site. At the end of January, London Borough of Camden will be joining the exercise, and interchanging notices directly with National Grid.

Thames Water has also been provided with the same software version. Like the other utilities, they will be using the system both for trial running and for testing interfaces that have been developed with their Works Management systems.

The close relationships that have been established for these exercises will help to ensure that the Insight 2.5 product, which is set for general release to all Symology customers from 18 February, will have been fully validated in simulated “real-life” environments.

Les Guest (Street Works Policy Manager at National Grid, and Director of NJUG) says "National Grid always aims to be at the forefront in implementing systems to ensure compliance with legislation. Given the almost impossible timescales for introduction of TMA, we are delighted that we are able to start noticing trials in co-operation with Symology at this early stage".

Scott Hutchinson, Symology’s Marketing Manager, commented "Symology's leading position is because of considerable investment over the last three years in a complete re-design of the noticing software to fully meet the demands of the TMA era. When the EToN Technical Specification was finally approved in November, the Insight TMA system was ready and waiting for the finalised noticing formats to be slotted in. Potential customers immediately recognise that we are providing the most comprehensive solution; way in advance of systems that simply provide the basics of noticing compliance. This is why we have seen an increasing number of new customers switch to Symology's Insight system."

Real-time roadworks information for the whole of Scotland

A new website has been launched (developed by Symology on behalf of the Scottish Executive) to allow the public to see where roadworks are taking place across the Lothians and Scotland.

The website - http://www.roadworksscotland.org - provides the public with real-time road works information in both textual and map-based forms for the whole of Scotland.

Scottish Road Works Commissioner John Gooday, said: "This site will, at the click of a mouse, allow the public to find out how long they are planned to last, what their impact is likely to be, the organisation responsible for the works and their contact details.

Roadworks often come in for a bad press, but the reality is that they are a necessary fact of life if we wish to have well-maintained, safe road networks and to continue to enjoy essential services such as gas, water and electricity and telecommunications."

The Google Maps based mapping system reads data directly from the ESRI ArcSDE spatial database that is used for the full Scottish Road Works Register System which Symology also provide - for further information see - Helping Avoid Disruption.

Symology Launches Street Works "Pay-per-Works" service

Symology is pleased to announce the launch of the UK´s first fully managed web-based Street Works "Pay-per-Works" service in England and Wales. This service is aimed at organisations that have a limited number of Street Works operations each year and cannot justify the purchase and management of their own system.

The fully managed service provides subscribers with the ability to record and monitor the progress of works, with full 2-way FTP transmission of all EToN Notices, Comments and Inspections. The powerful, built-in exception reporting tools help minimise the costs that can occur with possible Section 74 Overstay charges, and eliminate charges imposed by Highway Authorities for sending "paper notices". With the expected introduction of Fixed Penalty Charges for any incorrect or late notices, this service can significantly reduce the potential liability resulting from errors that can easily occur with a manual system.

John Allison, Business Development Manager at Symology said: "We designed the service model to be straightforward for subscribers to work out their costs in advance. We provide the subscribers with the full Insight Street Works Register system, including the ability to define their own report layouts and download the results to their own PC, as well as emailing a report to any destination. The users have full access to the Symology Support Desk for day-to-day queries and advice. All upgrades to the system, including the new features required for the Traffic Management Act and New Codes of Practice, are provided at no extra charge, in line with our policy for all of our customers."

"The first subscriber of this service went live on the 2nd of July 2007. Envoy provides gas and electricity operations and maintenance services to independent utility asset owners. With over 450,000 metering assets, Envoy is the market leader in this very competitive sector. As a dynamic business that is growing fast, the success of Envoy had resulted in the need to develop an effective and robust system for managing projects that involve street works."

Tracy Jones, Network Asset Manager, Envoy: "In Scotland the group are members of the Susiephone community, which uses the central Insight register to record and monitor all Road Works in a service provided and managed by Symology. For our growing operation in England and Wales we needed a cost effective solution that will provide the full facility of a Street Works system and enable us to deliver the best possible service, both to our customers and the general public. Symology’s "Pay-per-Works" service fits the bill perfectly; it has all the features we were looking for plus a proven track record in Scotland. A single course at Symology’s offices fulfilled our training needs, and we can see a clear growth path for the service as our business expands."

Scotia Gas Networks go live with Insight

Scotia Gas Networks (SGN) has recently gone "live" with the UK´s most successful and widely used Street Works Register Solution - Symology's Insight system.

SGN acquired the Scotland and South of England gas networks from National Grid Gas in June 2005. They are now the company responsible for distributing gas to homes and businesses in Southern England, including South London, as well as the whole of Scotland. The SGN network comprises of approximately 73,000km of gas pipelines.

The implementation of the Insight system at SGN was complex. All of the Street Works data for the SGN regions, which was stored in the UK wide National Grid Gas Street Works System (also managed using Symology´s Insight system), was required to be extracted and converted to the latest release of Insight. In addition, real-time bi-directional XML/SOAP interfaces were required to be developed between Insight and SGN´s Maximo Works/Asset Management System.

The Insight system automatically sends all notices to English Highway Authorities, as well as to the Scottish Road Works Register. Insight is able to do this because it supports multiple simultaneous Codes of Practice.

Symology worked closely in partnership with SGN (and their outsourced IT provider - Tata Consultancy Services), and the project that commenced in late 2005 was successfully completed when the system went "Live" on-schedule in December 2006.

Mr Chris Semple of Scotia Gas Networks said "The introduction of a new street works management system, combined with the introduction of a new work asset management system, was always going to be a challenge given the implementation timescales. However, with the support of Symology and a good working relationship with our IT solution provider - Tata Consultancy Services, the implementation of Insight 2.3 successfully went live on schedule. The business looks forward to maintaining a good relationship with Symology, to ensure we get the most from their application, thus ensuring the business can maintain a good relationship with the different road authorities and respond to any new regulatory changes as efficiently as possible."

Symology´s Managing Director - Ken Hickson added "The successful completion of this implementation now means that the entire UK gas industry is based on using Symology´s Insight product for Street Works operations. This is the sixth Insight Street Works project that has been implemented smoothly, within budget, and on time in the last twelve months, all of a high-profile and complex nature. Both Symology and Scotia Gas Networks can be proud of the achievement. We are totally committed to retaining the excellent working relationship that has been forged with SGN, and helping to meet the challenges of the impending Traffic Management era."

New Career Opportunities at Symology

Continuing expansion of the Company's activities has created the opportunities detailed here. For the right candidates, the positions offer a long-term career opportunity, job satisfaction, and the further development of their skills in a growth area of activity. Symology offer attractive remuneration packages, which include a company pension scheme and employee share options.

Latest Symology User Group a great success

The latest Symology User Group meeting was held at the Novotel, Nottingham, on Tuesday 6 March 2007. The meeting was an overwhelming success, with over 120 delegates attending from Symology's customer base of Local Government, Utility, Contracting and Engineering Consultancy organisations.

Guest Speaker - Marc Hobel (Strategic Development Manager for Ordnance Survey) provided an excellent presentation on the benefits of linking MasterMap ITN data with Level 3 National Street Gazetteers. This session dovetailed very well with Symology's own presentations which covered the new facilities being provided in the next release of Insight to link ITN with the Level 3 Gazetteer data. A demonstration of the new facilities for maintaining Local Street Gazetteers and Associated Street Data using the new embedded mapping facilities was also provided.

Other presentations included a review of the various solutions Symology are providing to assist Utilities and Local Authorities in preparing for the Traffic Management Act. A preview of the new public facing website for the Scottish Road Works Web Register (utilising Google Maps) was also demonstrated.

Customer presentations came from Barry Fosh of Islington Council who showed how Symology's systems are at the heart of their "Asset Management as a Customer Service" philosophy. Steve Finley from Rotherham MBC then rounded proceedings off with a presentation showing the strides they have been making using Symology's Asset Valuation module. Steve then provided a round-up of what's been happening nationally with regards to UKPMS.

The comprehensive agenda was welcomed by the broad spectrum of attendees, with numerous positive comments being fed back to the company's staff regarding the success of the day.

The various presentations and minutes are available to existing Symology customers within the Symposium section of the website.

Symology NSG Users win National Awards

Intelligent Addressing has announced the winners of the 2006 NLPG and NSG Exemplar Awards. The Awards, which attracted a record 53 entries, recognise outstanding service delivery by local authorities using the National Land & Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and National Street Gazetteer (NSG), and are supported by the Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA).

The Awards Presentation took place at the Radisson Edwardian Hotel, Manchester on Tuesday 10th October 2006. A workshop was staged immediately prior to the event to share best practice allowing senior members of staff to hear how the NLPG and NSG are delivering real, demonstrable benefits to both local and central government. A key part of the workshop included a presentation of an independent report from the Centre for Economics and Business Research into the value of the efficiency savings offered by LLPGs and how they can help local authorities meet public sector efficiency targets under the Gershon Review as well as their obligations under Transformational Government.

Sandwell's Simon Gelenscer and David Crisp receiving their award.Symology is pleased to announce that two of its customers who use Insight for NSG Management won awards.

Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council were highly commended for their "Best Use of the NSG with partners".

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council won the award "Most Creative Use" of the NSG.

The photograph to the left shows Sandwell's Simon Gelenscer and David Crisp receiving their award.




Symology launch Asset Valuation software

In line with the recommendations in the document "Highway Infrastructure Asset Valuation Guide" produced by the County Surveyors Society (CSS) and the TAG Asset Management Working Group, Symology has launched a new Asset Valuation module.

With Benchmark Asset Valuations being recommended for submission by the end of this financial year, to support Asset Management and Whole of Government Accounts, this new module provides all the facilities necessary to meet these requirements.

The new facilities allow multiple Valuation Sets to be defined. Each Valuation Set comprises the Highway Infrastructure Asset Type e.g. Roads, Footway/Cycle Routes, Highways Lighting etc., and allows these to be divided into Asset Groups and Sub-Groups so that Unit Rates and Gross Replacement Cost (GRC) models can be defined.

Extensive selection criteria facilities are provided (in advance of the CSS guidelines), which allow the user to select Asset Details, Attributes, Street Gazetteer or Network Referencing data that are to be used in the valuation calculations.

The highly scalable facilities allow the user to adopt the approach that they wish to use, be it a very broad high level approach or at the other end of the scale users may wish to define values for very specific sub-sets of data. Whichever approach is required, the facilities provide the flexibility to accommodate the methods chosen.

Once an Asset Valuation process has been run, the valuation results are presented on screen in summarised form with further options to drill-down on each line to reveal the valuation of each individual asset.

A detailed audit report is also provided in order that the valuation results are able to be submitted in a fully auditable and transparent manner.

View/Download the Asset Valuation overview leaflet

Northern Gas Networks Ltd go live with Insight

Northern Gas Networks Ltd (NGN) went live in August 2006 with the UK's most successful and widely used Street Works Register Solution - Symology's Insight system.

NGN took over the north of England Gas Network from National Grid Gas in June 2005. They are now the company responsible for distributing gas to homes and businesses in West, East & North Yorkshire, the North East and northern Cumbria. The NGN network comprises of 36,000km of gas pipes, that's enough to travel from Leeds to Sydney, Australia, and back again.

The implementation of the NGN system was complex. All of the Street Works data for the NGN region, that was stored in the UK wide National Grid Gas Street Works System (also managed using Symology's Insight system), was required to be extracted and converted to the latest release of Insight. In addition, two real-time bi-directional XML/SOAP interfaces were required to be developed. One between Insight and NGN's SAP Works/Asset Management System, and the other between a separate Insight database (that is to be used for the connections side of NGN's business) and AMT Sybex's Ellipse system.

Symology worked closely in partnership with NGN (and their outsourced IT provider - Wipro), and the project that commenced in August 2005 was successfully completed when the system went "Live" on-schedule in August 2006.

Symology's Managing Director - Ken Hickson said "I am delighted to welcome NGN on board, joining our ever expanding base of Utility sector clients. Symology's reputation for providing the highest quality Street Works solution is matched only by our experience in delivering high-profile complex projects smoothly, within budget, and on time. We have already forged an excellent working relationship with NGN, and I look forward to a long and successful partnership supporting their business operations."

Mr Steve Thomas (Network Support Manager) of Northern Gas Networks Ltd said "What has impressed us about Symology is their breadth of knowledge and expertise both from a business perspective and in their understanding of the complex IT issues involved in this project. Overall NGN needed to get the new business up and running by migrating data and business processes from thirty seven old National Grid systems onto seven new systems of our own. To implement these systems and successfully integrate Insight with SAP and AMT Sybex was a huge challenge. The migration of the existing data and the launch of Insight 2.3 has been a great success. With the Insight system in place and further regulatory change around the corner (in the form of the forthcoming new Codes of Practice) we are confident, that in Symology, we have the ideal partner to allow us to approach these future changes with confidence."

The Scottish Road Works Register - Helping Avoid Disruption

For many years, the entire community of roads authorities and utilities in Scotland have co-operated in using a joint system, and benefited from a centralised register of road works activities.

The application of the latest GIS technologies has added further benefits, and is opening up the opportunities for a new era in the management and co-ordination of street works.

Not only can this provide improved efficiencies in utility and roads authority operations, but can significantly reduce the disruption impact on the travelling public.

View/Download The Scottish Road Works Register - Helping Avoid Disruption (PDF)

Wales & West Utilities go live with Insight

Wales & West Utilities Limited (WWU), formerly part of National Grid Gas, went live in June 2006 with the UK´s most successful and widely used Street Works Register Solution - Symology´s Insight system.

WWU is a regulated gas distribution business with around 34,000 km of gas distribution pipelines located in Wales and the South West of England, serving a catchment area with a population of 7.4 million people.

The implementation of the WWU system was relatively complex. All of the Street Works data for the Wales and West region, that was stored in the UK wide National Grid Gas Street Works System (also managed using Symology´s Insight system), was required to be extracted and converted to the latest release of Insight. In addition to this a bi-directional real-time XML/SOAP interface was required between Insight and WWU's SAP Works Management System.

Symology worked closely in partnership with WWU (and their outsourced IT provider - Wipro), and the project that commenced in August 2005 was successfully completed when the system went "Live" on-schedule in June 2006.

Symology´s Managing Director said "Switchover to the new system occurred smoothly, within budget, and on time. This is a tribute to all involved, and a reflection of the excellent working relationship which had been established. We look forward to a long and successful partnership with WWU, supporting their business operations."

Simon Trivella (Commercial Support Manager) of Wales & West Utilities Ltd said "to replace all our IT systems and successfully integrate them was always going to be a challenge, the migration of data and launch of Insight 2.3 has been a great success, Insight not only provides a solution for us to comply with our notification requirements but allows us to manage, monitor and report with greater visibility than we have ever had. With the new notification regime (TMA) coming in 2007 we hope that we can continue to work closely with Symology, build on our strong working relationship and be well prepared for the future."

New Asset Valuation facilities receive praise from Sub-Group

At the recent Asset Management User Sub-Group meeting in Sheffield, Symology demonstrated the new Asset Valuation facilities that are scheduled for release in October 2006. The new facilities were warmly received by the sub-group members, and the overwhelming consensus was that Symology have once again come up with a flexible and scalable solution that exceeds the base requirements.

Comments from sub-group members included:

"This is a really flexible solution that operates via a transparent mechanism."

"It has multiple levels of usefulness. It can be used by the engineer or the accountant."

"It allows us to choose the level of detail. We can perform a summary ‘fag-packet’ run or we can go down to incredible levels of detail."

"This facility provides the final cog for Insight to be a complete Asset Management solution."

"Previously any attempts at valuation were just a best guess, and were very difficult to defend. Now when the auditor says 'show me', we can."

"This allows us to find the gaps in our Asset Register."

"If we keep our Asset Register up to date, we know that our Asset Valuation will always be up to date as well."

"Asset Valuation strengthens the need for us to keep all our asset information in a single integrated Asset Register."

"It provides a user-friendly way of presenting masses of data."

The minutes of the meeting and the associated PowerPoint slides are available for download (for existing Symology customers) in the Symposium section of the website.

View/Download the Asset Valuation overview leaflet

Announcing Insight Version 2.3

Symology is pleased to announce the release of Insight Version 2.3. This release is the outcome of the most major development for many years. It includes significant new technology options and substantial enhancements to the integrated reporting functionality, as well as completely new, replacement modules for both Street Works Register and Licences, which are available to existing users free of charge. Many benefits, such as improved enquiry, embedded Crystal-based reporting, data export, and ease of use arise directly from the implementation of Symology's latest system design and interface standards.

Street Works Register

This new module provides maximum assistance in meeting the requirements of the Traffic management era, and paves the way for a smooth introduction of the new Code of Practice rules, including permits and fixed penalty notices. It provides the scope for organisations to implement appropriate business processes and controls, in advance of the statutory changes being introduced, and thereby minimise liability for future non-conformance.

The automated link between Insight's Works Management and Street Works modules, for network management purposes, has been enhanced. This enables highway authorities to inject relevant works into the Street Works coordination process, together with utility works and other activities.

A range of enhancements have also been made to the embedded mapping functions to automate the detection of potential conflicts, and facilitate improved Street Works Coordination.

Highways Act Permits and Licences

Increased emphasis on this area within the new Codes of Practice have established new demands on highway authority users. This new module provides powerful facilities, which enable all the coordination, control, safety, network planning and financial issues that surround licence applications to be managed effectively. It also paves the way for integration of these functions with Street Works for coordination purposes, when the new Code of Practice is implemented.

New Technology Options

Symology's policy is to provide integrated, enterprise wide, infrastructure asset management systems, independent of corporate platform and technology standards. In keeping with this philosophy, Insight Version 2.3 sees the addition of Oracle's Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) to its stable of database platform options.

Interoperability of different computer systems using real-time "web service" interfaces is an increasingly important element of any successful software solution. Building upon the real-time XML/SOAP based interfaces developed for our Mobile Device solution, Version 2.3 sees the introduction of the "Universal Works Management Interface" which enables bi-directional interfacing between external works management systems and Symology Street Works Register. This real-time interface is already in use at customer sites such as Wales & West Utilities, where their SAP Works Management System interfaces with their Insight Street Works Register system. A "web service" based CRM interface is also now available; this interface has successfully been deployed on a number of customer sites, including Islington Council who interface live between Insight and OnyxCRM.

High quality management reports from the integrated Asset Management data, provide the opportunity to analyse and cross-reference data in an unlimited number of ways, enabling decisions and strategies to be formulated with confidence and accuracy. Version 2.3 sees further enhancements to the embedded Insight reporting functions, including the adoption of the very latest Crystal XI RCAPI version. The new facilities provide even greater functionality than existed before, including features such as the ability to include multiple images on each element of a multi-job works order.

Last but not least, a host of other enhancements have been built into this exciting new release, offering improved system administration, authority and access controls, including the option to integrate the Insight login process with Microsoft Active Directory.

City of London switch to Insight for Street Works

Symology is pleased to announce that the City of London is the first authority to place an order for the all new 'Insight for Street Works' system, which contains extensive new facilities to meet the requirements of the Traffic Management Act.

City of London will be switching to Insight from their existing Street Works system, and their existing data will be converted as part of the implementation. City of London have also ordered Symology's new Licences module, embedded mapping facilities and mobile data collection software.

Symology's Business Development Manager - Mr John Allison said 'City of London's decision to switch to Symology is a clear indication that the new "Insight for Street Works' solution is way in advance of competing systems. We are delighted to welcome City of London as a Symology customer, and we will work closely with them to ensure that they can approach the new Traffic Management era fully prepared and with confidence.'

Full Map-based Street Works Coordination for Scotland

Symology implemented the new web-based Scottish Road Works Register for live operation, as scheduled, on Monday 3 April 2006. The Register is the first fully map-based national coordination system in the UK, and the most advanced system of its type. It is used by approximately 1000 users within 32 roads authorities, 18 utilities, the Scottish Executive and Trunk Road operators.

The Register is the focal point for planning and coordination of all road works that are carried out on Scotland's roads. It covers all noticing requirements of the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991, as well as Plant Information Requests, Damage Notifications, and the "Dial Before You Dig" One Call service. It is also designed to accommodate the strengthened provisions of the Transport (Scotland) Act 2005, and enable all Scottish organisations to prepare for its statutory introduction.

Symology's Insight software is replacing a system supplied by Moleseye Ltd, part of the MapInfo group of companies. Symology has established a new operating centre in Larbert to support the operation, as well as to provide consultancy and business development functions covering a widening scope of services to the Scottish nation.

In addition to its leading-edge Street Works functionality, the SRWR is also a showcase deployment of Symology's Managed Service offering, called Insight Online. The key facilities provided by the system include:

  • Map-based Level III Street Gazetteer for all of Scotland
  • Plant Information Request Regime (including One Call)
  • Utility Street Works Notifications
  • Geo-coding of Utility and Roads Authority works
  • Map-based co-ordination of all activities
  • Automated Conflict Detection
  • Roads Authority Responses and Directions
  • Reinstatements and Inspections
  • Damage Records
  • Management Prompting and Reporting

Symology's Managing Director Ken Hickson commented, "The successful implementation of this showcase system cements Symology's position as the UK's leading supplier of Street Works Register Systems. We have established an excellent relationship with the Susiephone implementation group, based on openness and trust. Our common objective has been to provide real benefits to Scottish Authorities and Utilities in managing and improving the co-ordination of road works.

Since the award of this contract in June 2005, a great deal has been accomplished, including establishing the managed service infrastructure and a new Scottish Office, enhancing the Insight product, the migration of all existing data and training of end-users and managers. The delivery of a live national system, on time, is testament to all involved, and to the first class cooperation between Susiephone and Symology project team members."

Brian Cooper (a Director of Susiephone Ltd and chair of the contract implementation group) commented, "Awarding this contract was a major commitment for the Susiephone Community, as it impacts on every Roads Authority and every Utility Company in Scotland, as well as the Scottish Executive. It was therefore essential that we carried out a thorough and rigorous assessment of each tender submission.

Symology's bid clearly demonstrated their high level of expertise and knowledge in relation to Road Works, and all the associated Acts and Codes of Practice, and their submission exceeded the tender requirements, particularly in relation to the functionality/technical merit of design, operational delivery and support provisions.

We have established an excellent working relationship with Symology and are delighted that the system is now in live operation. I have no doubts that we made the right decision in choosing Symology, and the Susiephone team are I are extremely excited by the additional benefits that we can now provide to the Scottish community."

Symology pass UKPMS Annual Health Check

The UKPMS Annual Health Check exists to provide ongoing routine assurance that fully accredited UKPMS systems continue to meet all UKPMS requirements, including the current rule set and BVPI definitions.

The first part of the health check comprises a self-test element, which Symology passed in December 2005. In order to meet all the very latest requirements Version 2.2.1 of Insight has been enhanced to include the new Roads Condition Indicator function, which is required for BV223 and BV224a. It has also been enhanced to include RP601, the rule set required for the 2005/06 Performance Indicators. There have also been a number of minor fixes and enhancements to the Performance Indicators including outputting the correct zero CI figures on BV187 and the ability to run BV187 on hierarchy 3 and 4 footways. The Version 2.2.1 help system has also been updated to include details of how to produce the BVPIs in the Maintenance Standards / BVPI Calculation Guidance.

The second part of the Annual Health Check requires a Symology user to be present for the tests and to verify that it is a real version of the product. Steve Finley of Rotherham MBC has recently been issued with the latest release of Insight Version 2.2.1. This new version has been installed at Rotherham MBC and Steve Finley confirmed to the UKPMS Contractor on 23 January 2006 that all the latest requirements, including the RCI requirements, are fully implemented and available to users.

Sandwell MBC choose Insight for Integrated Asset Management

Symology, the UK's leading supplier of Infrastructure Asset Management Systems, is pleased to announce the selection by Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council of its flagship integrated asset management solution - Insight Enterprise.

Sandwell have clearly identified the efficiency and cost benefits that can be gained from an integrated approach and, in addition to their existing Symology supplied Street Works operations, are intending to implement Insight across the following areas:

  • Highways Maintenance
  • Street Lighting
  • Bridges & Structures
  • UKPMS
  • Customer Services
  • Mobile Inspections

A phased implementation approach will begin with a conversion from their existing Roadster system, to cover the management of both Highways and Bridges & Structures.

Phase Two will see the implementation of Symology's UKPMS facilities, which will replace the existing system supplied by MARCH. Phase Three will see the introduction of Asset Management & Asset Valuation facilities.

Phase Four comprises the real-time web service based integration of Symology's Customer Service module with Sandwell's Corporate CRM system. The final phase will involve the replacement of the existing Street Lighting system supplied by Mayrise.

Interestingly, Sandwell have contracted out the carrying out of Safety Inspections to an outside contractor - Jacobs Babtie Ltd and so, Sandwell will be running the mobile software, while Jacobs Babtie will be purchasing and using the mobile device software supplied by Symology.

Simon Gelencser, Team Leader of Sandwell MBC's - Highways Direct Data Systems Support Team says: "We have been a long term user of Symology's Street Works Register solutions and we have always been very impressed with the software, support and services provided. When tasked with managing the introduction of a fully integrated asset management system across the department, I was determined to test the market, consider all the major players, and ensure that Sandwell obtained the best possible solution. I'm pleased to say that the conclusion of the evaluation process confirmed my initial feelings, that Symology's Insight offers the most comprehensive capability in terms of providing an integrated solution for the management of highway operations."

"Sandwell is always looking to increase operational efficiencies and to drive down costs. Pivotal to delivering on these goals is a centralised, spatially enabled system which holds all highway related assets. By storing this data centrally, all maintenance requirements and costs, inspections, condition surveys and asset valuations are cross-referenced to the assets, therefore allowing crucial up-to-the-minute management information to be quickly and easily assimilated."

"Insight not only delivers on all our asset management needs, but opens up a range of wider benefits through ease of integration with other related council systems such as Corporate CRM, Corporate Finance and the Council’s Website. Integration between Insight’s Street Works Register and Defect Recording modules will also enable us to easily create and manage all the required notices for the Council’s own works and publish them via the web, both of which are important elements of the forthcoming Traffic Management Act."

Symology's Managing Director Ken Hickson said "Sandwell is a forward thinking Local Authority with a clear vision of the benefits that can be achieved through the creation of asset management efficiencies and the delivery of effective services. We are delighted to continue our excellent relationship with Sandwell and I am confident that we will deliver a system that not only meets but exceeds the requirements of its asset management goals."

Insight Mobile - Integrated Solutions for the 21st Century

With the emergence of new mobile device hardware, telecommunications and software technologies and in line with the ever increasing requirements of users, two years ago Symology set about developing a new range of mobile data collection solutions.

View/Download Insight Mobile - Integrated Solutions for the 21st Century (PDF)

Bucks CC Scoop National Transport Award

Buckinghamshire County Councils Transportation service have recently been crowned "Transport Team of the Year" at the fifth National Transport Awards, which took place at the Hilton Hotel, London on Tuesday 28 June. The award was achieved for having the best roads in the Country.

Following a commitment by the Council to improve the condition of Buckinghamshire roads and to be judged amongst the best in the country, the aim was to set about identifying and repairing the roads in most need across the County. To achieve their goal Bucks created a special Highway Maintenance Working Group (HMWG), made up of Strategic Maintenance officers and representatives from their Term Consultant and Term Contractor. This ensured internal credibility, effectiveness and a clear focused approach.

Up until 2002, road condition data was not the primary method of prioritising the structural maintenance programme. The programme was largely based upon local priorities, identified by local teams and not led by countywide strategic priorities. Rodney Royston, Cabinet Member for Planning and Transportation at the time, decided that a fundamental change was required and that a more scientific, data led approach was required.

By using various types of road condition data that had been collected in recent years, the team worked with information supplied from Symology Insight system and their Term Consultant to produce a representation of the whole network showing the location, type and severity of all road surface defects. This enabled the team to quickly prioritise site investigations and produce a prioritised list of costed, technically suitable maintenance schemes.

These details were then fed into Symology´s (UKPMS Tranche 3 accredited) Insight Asset Management System and cost/benefit scenarios were evaluated and decided upon for each scheme in turn. Insight´s  Interactive Scheme Design" facility was used to great effect at this stage to model and fine tune different scheme designs.

The end product from this process is a strategic, data led, technically justifiable list of schemes, which has maximum potential impact upon improving the condition of the road network, at minimum cost.

Sean Rooney (Team Leader, Transportation Maintenance & Contracts - Bucks CC) said "We are delighted to have won this prestigious award and I would like to express my thanks to Symology for providing the excellent help, consultancy and systems that have helped us in achieving this enviable position."

Brian Berresford (Senior Asset Management Consultant - Symology) said "The facilities provided by Insight in the area of Pavement Management go far beyond the base UKPMS requirements. Buckinghamshire are really utilising the system to its fullest potential, so it is particularly pleasing that they have received such a prestigious award and that the system really is assisting Buckinghamshire in achieving real, tangible long-term benefits."

Bridging the Gap - Case Study

Highway structures represent a significant publicly owned asset that form an integral part of the transport infrastructure and are often prominent features of the community and its heritage. The principles of Asset Management are fundamental to deriving long-term strategies, and the need to develop tools and procedures to support the effective management of highway structures has become widely recognised in recent years.

The case study "Bridging the Gap" explains how Symology has worked closely with it's user base (in particular Bedfordshire Council County/Jacobs Babtie) to provide a comprehensive integrated solution for the management of Bridges and Structures.

View/Download the 'Bridging the Gap' Case Study (PDF)

Symology launch Total Managed Service - Insight Online

The Insight Online Total Managed Service enables all the technical overheads and workload, associated with traditional functions relating to database management, upgrades, new installations and re-installations, to be avoided by the Client. Symology hosts the application software and manages all server-side functions.

Utilising thin-client deployment technology, the Service is broadcast via a telecommunications network. Communication to the Service is by either a virtual private network (VPN), a partitioned section of the Internet set aside for accessing the service, or a dedicated point-to-point leased line.

View/Download Insight Online Overview Document (PDF)

Symology gain UKPMS accreditation for Mobile Software

Symology are pleased to announce that we have successfully attained UKPMS Accreditation for our Insight Mobile Version 2.1 Software. We have also extended the accreditation on the HIGHWAY PLUS husky/touchpc software from 2.0 to 2.1. Full details will be posted on the UKPMS web-site shortly.

This means that our UKPMS users can use our mobile device collection software to collect CVI/DVI surveys for BVPI purposes. Unlike other DCD software, we don't produce HMDIF output. Therefore our software is only accredited to be used in conjunction with the Insight Pavement Management System, which includes the "Post-Process UKPMS CVI Survey" process which must be used to convert the Hand-held CHI survey to the CVI survey required for Automatic Pass processing.

Insight for Street Lighting

On 30 November, Symology attended the Local Authority Annual Lighting Conference and Exhibition at the Business Design Centre in London.

Symology showcased, for the first time, the next release of Insight. This version, code-named Project Lithium, due out in April 2005, features a newly re-developed Asset Register module which encompasses many specialised options for Street Lighting Engineers.

Historically, there have been a number of stand-alone Street Lighting systems on the market, which between them have a significant proportion of the UK customer base. Many Street Lighting Engineers have resisted the integration of their operations into overall Asset Management systems, because those systems have not always provided all the specialised features they require.

Symology have had detailed consultations with many authorities, including existing users of Symology software and other systems. As a result, this next release of Insight will provide the scope for INTEGRATION into the most comprehensive Asset Management system available, whilst offering all the specialised street lighting facilities available in any stand-alone system.

At a recent User Group meeting, attended by some users of other systems, no-one was able to identify a single area in which any existing package provides better facilities than those incorporated into Insight. With the national agenda towards Integrated Asset Management, everyone could see the many advantages in being able to integrate Street Lighting, with Highways, Bridges and Structures, Traffic Management and UKPMS.

View/Download a summary of the new features in INSIGHT for Street Lighting (PDF)

20 Years and still going strong

Back in 1985, Buckinghamshire County Council, already appreciating the benefits of standardisation and packaged solutions, embarked on a project to install Symology's PUSWA package throughout the County. The success of this project started the beginning of a close, mutually beneficial relationship, which continues to thrive to this day.

View/Download the Buckinghamshire County Council Success Story (PDF)

Insight into London Borough of Newham

London Borough of Newham is the latest highway authority to adopt Symology's Insight range as the basis of their Asset Management development. The decision followed a comprehensive selection process involving an evaluation of all available packages. Initially, Insight is being implemented for responsive maintenance activities on Highways and Street Lighting, and is expected to be in full live operation within weeks. Mobile data collection facilities, based on latest available technology, will enable inspectors to interact with the central database whilst out in the field.

Following the initial highways implementation, many other functional areas are being considered for implemented, as part of the drive towards a fully integrated Asset Management solution.

Asset Management and The Traffic Management Act

Infrastructure Managers are facing two new national initiatives - Asset Management and the Traffic Management Act. Symology's Managing Director - Ken Hickson discusses what these new demands mean, what impact they will have on highway management organisations, and how the underlying objectives can be achieved.

View/Download the Asset Management and Traffic Management Act article (PDF)

Bedfordshire County Council integrate Street Works into their Symology Asset Management Systems

Symology is pleased to announce that Bedfordshire County Council are now fully live with Insight Street Works Register module. Data from their previous two separate Street Works databases were converted into Insight, providing Bedfordshire with a full history of all Street Works transactions, back to 1999, in a single system. This addition of the fully integrated Street Works Register module extends the Insight system which has been employed in the County since the end of 2002 to provide UKPMS Processing, Inventory, Routine Inspections and Works Orders.

Nick Woodgate, Principal Engineer at Bedfordshire County Council said "With the success of Symology systems since their introduction in the County, it was an obvious choice to replace the existing Street Works system with the Insight module. We will now be able to use a single system to see all of the activities that have been carried out, and activities that are due, on any of the streets within the County. Insight is very easy to use and takes little maintenance resources. The staff at Symology have been most helpful and are clearly knowledgeable of our business requirements as well as their own software. With the new Street Works Code of Practice and the legislation changes that are due to come into force, we know that Symology will provide an easy to implement and phased approach, in good time for us to prepare for the changes."

Symology's Managing Director, Ken Hickson, said, "We are delighted that Bedfordshire County Council have implemented the Street Works Register module, recognising the benefits of integrated systems. We are confident that Bedfordshire will gain full benefit from this addition, just as they have from our other modules. This implementation confirms Insight as the leading, fully integrated Asset Management system and also represents the 10th conversion from Exor's systems in recent years."

Celebrating 20 Years of Success - Insight for Asset Management

Having been incorporated on 11 October 1983, Symology Ltd is celebrating 20 years of success in the development and implementation of systems for land-based assets. The Company has been renowned over many years for providing the most powerful solutions, coupled with specialised support, consultancy and project management services of the highest quality.

Following four years of further development, Symology is marking its 20th anniversary with a launch of the new Insight range of products. This adds yet further potential, as a result of:

  • including all the unrivalled functionality of previous products.
  • incorporating a new design strategy, with leading-edge technologies, which make it the most advanced product of its kind.
  • using the experience of 20 years to combine the software elements into a comprehensive, integrated Asset Management solution.
  • adding further special-purpose functions, to ensure its applicability across the entire range of infrastructure assets.

In launching these products, Symology recognises and pays tribute to the contribution made by its customers. The depth of the relationships which have been established, and have enabled an open and fruitful interchange, have contributed significantly to this achievement.

Mobile Device Software fully released.

The latest software to be released from the development production line is Phase 1 of the mobile device data collection solution. The Phase 1 software although primarily designed for the collection of Street Works Inspection information does include facilities for embedded mapping and remote communication. Phase 2 of the mobile device solution due June 2004, will extend this available functionality to allow recording of General Maintenance (including ad-hoc works), Cyclic and Customer Service Inspections.

As part of the pre-release lifecycle we invited a number of customer to participate in a pilot trial. The benefits of this exercise were twofold, firstly it provided a familiarisation opportunity for the pilot sites and secondly it acted as a review process by the customer of what we had developed. Our thanks go to Steve Finley and Steve Graham of Rotherham MBC, Ilesh Chavda and Iestyn Faraday from LB Camden and Chris Stromberg of Cambridgeshire CC for their co-operation in the pilot exercise.

The feedback sessions provided the pilot sites with the opportunity to advise us in areas where the existing product could be improved. Some of these areas we have addressed within the initial Phase 1 release, the remainder will be considered within the Phase 2 product.

The pilot exercise was a resounding success with the feedback fully endorsing the development solution. With respect to the implementation Steve Finley commented "I have again been impressed by the cooperation given by Symology, to our IT section and myself, in setting up the web server, iPAQ's and the INSIGHT software. The two Street Works Technicians are very happy with the performance and usability of the iPAQ's, and have noted an improvement in both input and transfer of data."

At the time of publishing, the latest position is that all our pilot sites have been issued with the full release of the Mobile device solution and are running in a live environment. Rotherham and Camden are communicating through the cradles whereas Cambridgeshire have successfully established a remote link between the mobile devices and their INSIGHT data server.

UK Highways Services Ltd order RMMS conversion from T-Road

UK Highways Services Ltd, who maintain the M40, have confirmed their order for converting to Insight from T-Road, (JMP's Trunk Road maintenance system that Symology took over in July 2000).

Suffolk County Council extend their use of Symology systems

Following a comprehensive and wholly successful evaluation trial, SUFFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL have confirmed their order for additional modules of Symology's INSIGHT system. This extends the original system, which was purchased in 2001 for UKPMS processing. The additional modules cover inspections and work management, as well as the highly successful Street Works Register module, and represents a significant step towards the implementation of a fully integrated Highways Asset Management system.

Suffolk CC have also ordered the embedded mapping facilities of INSIGHT to allow Street Works, and other highways defects and reports, to be plotted on a corporate GIS system. Importantly, this will enable Suffolk CC to meet the requirements of the new Street Works Code of Practice which come into force in later this year. Included is a ready-made Web Services system to provide members of the public with Web access for enquiries on the Street Works Register.

The modules will be installed later this month, with data transferred from Suffolk CC's current systems. The database will be held within a secure Unix environment. Users in the area offices and agencies across the county, will access the data and maps using Thin Client facilities which are an integral part of INSIGHT. Full user training will be provided in the training centre at Symology's head office in Caddington.

David Capon, Street Works Manager, Suffolk County Council, said "We found Symology's Street Works Register module much simpler to use and maintain than other systems. We have always found the Symology Support Desk service readily available and able to answer our queries immediately and efficiently. The added benefit of Street Works being fully integrated with the other system modules will provide Suffolk CC with significant benefits."

Symology's Managing Director, Ken Hickson, welcomed Suffolk CC's commitment to INSIGHT saying "We are delighted that Suffolk CC have chosen to add the further modules, and to extend the use of INSIGHT across the whole county. We have been impressed with the thoroughness, and the professional approach, of the staff at Suffolk CC during the evaluation period. An excellent relationship has been fostered between our organisations, and everyone is fully committed to ensure ongoing success".

Wakefield 'live' within a month of purchase

The Wakefield Street Works system, ordered on 30 Oct, was up and running on 18 Nov.

All available old notices, covering a 2 year period were back-loaded into the system during a single day. Gazetteer links to OSCAR have been established with a high success rate.

Insight for Street Works replaces an existing in-house system.