The Role of Technology in Utility Damage Prevention – Insights from Connexus Energy’s Success
Technology as a Game Changer in Utility Damage Prevention
The utility industry has long grappled with the complexities of damage prevention. As construction projects multiply and infrastructure ages, the risks have only escalated. But for professionals in the damage prevention space, these challenges are nothing new.
What’s evolving rapidly, however, is the role of technology in addressing these challenges. Advanced digital solutions are transforming how utilities manage everything from ticket screening to on-site locates, reshaping workflows and driving efficiency in ways that manual systems could never achieve.
Moving Beyond Manual Processes with Digital Solutions
Utility damage prevention has traditionally been labor-intensive, relying heavily on manual processes that leave plenty of room for error. As excavation projects surge, the old ways simply can’t keep up. That’s where technology comes in.
Take Connexus Energy, for instance. With over 50,000 One Call tickets processed annually, their challenge wasn’t understanding the risks—it was about handling the volume and complexity efficiently. Their switch to KorTerra’s ticket management system eliminated unnecessary locates by screening tickets before dispatch, saving both time and resources.
This shift away from manual ticketing to automated, digital screening not only reduces the chance of human error but also ensures that field teams are deployed with precision. The ROI on such tools is clear: fewer unnecessary truck rolls, quick and accurate locates, and improved resource allocation.
Enhancing Locator Efficiency Through Automation
One of the most immediate benefits of leveraging technology is improved efficiency, especially in routing and dispatching locators. Gone are the days when locators had to rely on outdated maps or spend hours driving between scattered job sites. With map-based routing and integrated digital tools, teams can now streamline their daily tasks and cover more ground in less time.
For Connexus Energy, this meant real-time mapping and route optimization tools that saved each locator over an hour per day. The efficiency gains translated directly into cost savings, but more importantly, they allowed the team to focus on high-priority tasks without sacrificing accuracy.
Automation in damage prevention has proven to be more than a time-saver—it’s a productivity multiplier. By optimizing routes, eliminating manual errors, and giving locators the tools to see all their jobs in one place, companies can significantly increase their capacity without proportional increases in manpower.
Strengthening Communication with Real-Time Data
One of the most persistent challenges in damage prevention is communication—both internally and externally. Whether between field teams, contractors, or customers, any lapse in communication can lead to delays or, worse, utility strikes.
Technology bridges these gaps. KorTerra’s two-way communication interface, used by Connexus, allowed for seamless information flow between internal teams and contractors. This real-time data exchange provided greater visibility into ongoing projects and reduced delays caused by miscommunication.
For companies that already understand the critical importance of fast, clear communication, the value of such technology is evident. Whether it’s resolving excavator questions on the fly or ensuring everyone has access to the same up-to-date information, integrated communication tools make the damage prevention process more efficient and reliable.
The Financial Impact of Technology Adoption
Efficiency and accuracy don’t just prevent damages—they drive down costs. Connexus Energy’s decision to invest in KorTerra’s advanced technology resulted in over $26,000 in annual savings. These savings came from multiple areas, including fewer unnecessary locates, optimized resource use, and reduced time spent on manual processes.
For companies that have already invested in damage prevention protocols, technology offers a way to enhance those systems and see measurable returns. From a financial perspective, the cost of not adopting these tools often far outweighs the initial investment. It’s not just about protecting underground assets—it’s about maximizing operational efficiency across the board.
Future-Proofing Damage Prevention with Emerging Technologies
The role of technology in damage prevention is only set to grow. AI, machine learning, and advanced GIS mapping are just a few of the innovations poised to make a significant impact on how utility companies prevent damages in the years ahead.
While many companies have begun implementing automated ticket screening or digital communication interfaces, those on the cutting edge are already exploring AI-powered predictive analytics. This will allow for more proactive damage prevention—identifying potential risks even before excavation begins.
And advancing GIS technology offers exciting possibilities for real-time, highly accurate mapping of underground utilities. These tools will push the industry toward a future where damage prevention is more efficient, data-driven, and risk-averse than ever before.
Investing in Technology for Competitive Advantage
The case for technology in utility damage prevention is no longer up for debate. As Connexus Energy’s experience shows, the efficiency, cost savings, and safety benefits are substantial. For utility companies that have already built solid foundations in damage prevention, the next logical step is investing in technology to optimize those efforts.
In a world where infrastructure demands are increasing and safety regulations are tightening, the companies that embrace digital tools will be the ones leading the charge. Staying ahead of the curve isn’t just about preventing damage—it’s about staying competitive in an evolving industry.
About KorTerra, Inc.
KorTerra is the leading provider of damage prevention software, protecting billions of dollars in underground infrastructure. For over 30 years, the leading stakeholders in gas distribution, pipeline operation, telecommunications, electric distribution, contract locating, and city, county, and state governments have trusted KorTerra as their damage prevention solution. KorTerra helps mitigate risk and ensure the safety of field personnel by providing secure software platforms for processing 811 locate tickets, tracking and reporting asset damages, meeting regulatory compliance, and more. Explore additional solutions at korterra.com and follow KorTerra on LinkedIn.
Media Contact:
Paige Nygaard – KorTerra, Inc.
952.368.1911
marketing@korterra.com