Utility meter set up & reading
Nowadays meter readings are mainly performed by end users. Nevertheless, a few times a year, utility companies such as water, electricity and gas send field agents to take meter readings from each of their clients.
However, during this door to door, time consuming job, the field agents face more than one challenge to run operations.
Challenges faced
Originally, the meter reading was communicated by phone call, or even by using paper forms to note down the information. This used to bring a big cost burden to the utility companies: two people were required for the reading: one on the field and the other one in the office, to register the data.
In addition, employees swapping phones or changing phone numbers would make extremely difficult to contact a specific employee or get his/her exact location.
Solution
With the introduction of digitalisation, the working method has evolved becoming more efficient.
Equipped with Android™ cell phone, field agents are now able to register the reading information into their mobile devices, this data is then transferred directly to the control centre database via LTE network.
The control centre database, after recording the data, confirms back to the field agent either with time of contract activation or price for the supply of the service, that the agent can then confirm on the meter accordingly.
An additional benefit of implementing a digitalised process and supply field agents with rugged cell phones, is that, thanks to their rugged credentials, the rugged smartphones are able to guarantee, reliable performances in all weather, from extreme heat to intense cold and rain.
Furthermore, LTE smartphones are able to increase safety and security in case of accidents: agents on the field can send their position to the control centre and, in case of emergency, the agent can be easily located and rescued.
Benefits of a RugGear phone
By using a RugGear rugged Android™ cellular phone, the agent would benefit of a sunlight readable large display. The easy to handle devices would use LTE connectivity for a fast data transfer.
The devices, on Android™ OS, are able to support different field app clients to connect with the control centre database.
With large customisable side buttons, RugGear devices are ideal for PTT, making communication extremely easy.
Furthermore, GPS tracking makes the field agents easy to locate in case of emergency.
If you want to find out more about our products, get in touch with our sales team and we will be happy to guide you through our communication solutions.