An innovative web application that provides real control of private lateral RDII programs has been developed by ProjectMax, a specialist investigation and rehabilitation consultancy.
The drainBoss.net web application offers the means to integrate investigation management, information management and a process for monitoring and controlling the repair of defective drainage. A feature of the application is an “÷interactive’ map that provides an at-a-glance view of the progress of a project and the status of any repairs.
Private laterals
Tackling private laterals can be a minefield. Achieving or not achieving the targeted reduction of RDII can depend on the strategy implemented for managing the investigations, handling the data collected and controlling the remediation of the defective laterals. ProjectMax, building on their experience in inflow and infiltration programs, has developed a serious application designed to help utilities meet their goals.
Director of ProjectMax, Steve Apeldoorn, said “For several years we have been developing our own tools for managing RDII projects because there just has not been anything available in the market. This is the first time an application like this is available that can really provide a solution to utilities specifically designed for private laterals.”
The drainBoss.net application offers many advantages over conventional desktop applications. Contractors can directly input data and upload documentation to council against a property without the need for transferring mountains of paperwork or double handling. Also, there is no need to download or distribute software to everyone that needs access, in the internet browser all that is needed is a password. Users can access the application from any internet connection, including out in the field. Finally, the security of the council network is maintained; the system allows external users to provide and retrieve project specific information while a firewall protects the council’s corporate systems.
“Even a relatively small project can generate thousands of records,” said Mr Apeldoorn. “File sizes can get pretty large; a couple of mini-catchments can add up to three gigabytes of data alone, and that’s a lot of space to take up on the network for long periods of time. drainBoss.net resolves this problem by storing data on remote servers that are secure and provide excellent value. The data, of course, always remains owned by the clients.”
ProjectMax has ensured that drainBoss.net is set up to suit individual client processes. “Dependent on what stage a client is at in implementing an RDII program, we are also able to work with them to develop an RDII strategy for their organisation and a methodology for implementing investigation and remedial plans right down to a specific catchment level. We can even help administer the program if required,” said Mr Apeldoorn.