To Measure or Not to Measure

We’ve talked before about getting the right amount of data the first time around. If you’re applying for new attachments or deploying broadband, figuring out what the pole owner wants before sending out field teams lowers exposure and improves efficiency (no more pickups or recollection!). 

The goal is to find a sweet spot between being underprepared and overcollecting unnecessary data. The consequences of either can look like:

• Endless change orders to fill in missing information

• Deteriorating trust because of over-charging for unnecessary data. 

• Not seeing ROI because it either costs too much to keep recollecting or overcollection doesn’t pay off the way expected. 

That sweet spot lets you provide the most valuable data as quickly as possible and keep getting lasting value out of it for years to come. To do that, we have to know our scope really well. 

The Key Question: Measured or Unmeasured?

While there are a ton of factors to consider when determining scope (client expectations, team bandwidth, project margins, etc), the most critical question comes back to the deliverable:

How does the client plan to use the data and how can its value be maximized without diminishing returns?

Often, we can answer this by asking: Do I need to collect measured or unmeasured data?

When Measurements Matter

For new attachments, permitting, equipment upgrades, or smart grid integrations, detailed measurements are a must. Whenever work will change the pole's current condition, we need to collect defensible, measured data to inform designs and loading analysis.

For example, if your client wants to update their utility equipment, they need to know: 

• What equipment is currently there

• What condition it's in

• What its specs are and where it’s attached 

• The height of surrounding attachments

With this info, construction can be completed without putting crews in an unsafe position. 

Faster Photo Documentation

Not every project demands measurements. Sometimes clients are just trying to get a snapshot to answer questions like: 

• Where am I attached?

• What's my network's condition?

• Are my records accurate?

• What types and quantities of equipment do I have?

While you can answer those questions without measurements, all that info still benefits from photo documentation. Not only is bulk photo collection faster, but it’s value extends beyond the initial project or deliverable.

Photos provide full context that spreadsheets and data forms can’t capture. Collecting photo data gives a full picture (pun intended) of the real conditions. So while data might originally be used for truing up historical records, it can be reused to run attachment audits, keep track of vegetation management, or conduct feasibility studies. 

Delivering Extra Value 

Sometimes providing value means going above and beyond for your client, even when their deliverables might not require that extra hallway shot or 360-degree photos. 

Providing real value sometimes means going the extra mile, even when the client's deliverables don't require it. Build workflows that collect a bit more than is strictly needed now, so you have it if the project evolves later.

Deliver the spreadsheets, but include the photo sets too. Give them the complete picture of field realities.

It's a balancing act— finding the optimal amount of data to maximize project ROI without creating out-of-scope change orders and compromising fair exchange. But that above-and-beyond value benefits everyone:

• It builds trust in a defensive industry.

• It sets you apart in a race-to-the-bottom market.

• It creates reusable data assets that keep providing insights.

The right tools and workflows can help you set new standards for success without draining your team.

Thanks for reading! We’re gearing up for the new year, with products that make it easier to bring more and more value and set new standards for success without draining your team. Our consulting team is giving away three free custom implementation packages for data collection—contact us at hello@katapultengineering.com to claim yours!