CUSTOMER SUCCESS STORY
Automating Utility Locate Requests with FME
Electra used FME automation to cut request turnaround times by 97%, processing hundreds of requests each month
97% reduction
in processing time. 156 hours/month → 4 hours/month
3–4 days cut to near real time
for locate request turnaround
209+ monthly requests
handled automatically without extra staff
GIS team capacity freed
for strategic, higher-value work
FME has released our GIS team from days of highly administrative manual processing and enabled them to focus on more skilled tasks that derive far greater value from our GIS systems. The creative solutions, FME technical expertise and energy to collaborate that Locus has brought to this project and others is highly appreciated”
– Mathew Cooper
Network Digital Systems Manager
Electra operates electricity distribution networks across the Kapiti and Horowhenua districts, serving over 45,000 customers in New Zealand. Managing safe excavation near buried utility assets is critical for public safety and network reliability. By automating its “Call Before You Dig” enquiry process with FME, Electra reduced processing time from 156 hours per month to just 4, freeing staff to focus on higher-value GIS tasks while improving accuracy and response times for contractors and other stakeholders.
The Challenge:
Manual Processes Straining Resources
Like utilities worldwide, Electra must protect underground power lines and assets from accidental damage during construction. Contractors rely on “Call Before You Dig” (known locally as beforeUdig) to identify buried infrastructure before excavation begins.
But Electra’s enquiry process was significantly slowed down by manual GIS workflows. Up to 15 requests arrived each day, with staff spending hours compiling maps and utility reports. Processing times stretched to three or four days, frustrating contractors and placing unsustainable demand on the GIS team.
The Solution:
Automating the Locate Workflow with FME
To streamline operations, Electra engaged Locus. Together, they designed an FME-powered workflow that ingests locate requests, generates accurate PDF utility reports, and returns them to contractors automatically.
The system includes built-in error checking and can handle fluctuating request volumes without staff intervention. What was once a time-consuming, manual effort became a fast, reliable, and scalable digital process.
The Results:
Faster Turnaround, Smarter Resource Use
By automating its locate service, Electra achieved dramatic efficiency gains:
- Processing time reduced by 97% — from 156 hours a month to just 4
- Turnaround cut from 3–4 days to near real time
- 209+ monthly requests handled effortlessly
- GIS staff freed for higher-value analysis and projects
Why it Matters
Electra’s success highlights the value of workflow automation for utilities managing high volumes of asset protection requests. By replacing manual processes with scalable, error-checked automation, Electra not only improved efficiency but also enhanced contractor safety, reduced operational risk, and positioned itself to handle future demand without adding headcount.
It’s a model any utility can follow: protect assets, improve service, and free skilled staff for the work that really matters.
By automating our ‘Before You Dig’ process, we’ve not only drastically reduced processing time but also enhanced the accuracy and reliability of our responses. This transformation has enabled our team to focus on strategic initiatives, ultimately leading to improved service delivery and greater public safety.”
— Mathew Cooper
Network Digital Systems Manager, Electra
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