Power Network Asset Management / Data Improvement Programme

Our client, a tier-one global systems integrator, works within the UK-regulated Energy market. In this environment, the regulator, Ofgem, may levy severe financial penalties on network operators for inaccurate or incomplete network data.

Problem:

A network operator who generates and supplies electricity to a significant portion of the UK embarked upon an ambitious programme of systems and data improvement to enable advanced network control and management. A critical aspect of the programme is the cleansing and enrichment of network data that feeds into these new systems. The network operator selected our client as the most capable partner for these works, In part, due to their access to the best and most capable staff via Kinect’s specialist recruitment team.

How we did it:

This work programme was designed with a very detailed start up and proof of concept stage. Kinect were active participants in the resource scheduling and role definition aspects of this phase, providing support and guidance on the skills and types of people available in the market. We staffed a small initial team to work on business analysis and technical documentation before the full project rollout.

Once the production phase began, Kinect was responsible for identifying and selecting the best candidates for all project roles. This involved full interview and technical skill verification, UK right-to-work validation, staff onboarding and initial support. The technical skills required varied by role but focused on ESRI ArcGIS and SAP, with specific electrical network knowledge and interpretative skills.

Outcome:

The successes of this project resulted in a vast improvement in regulatory network data reporting. Regulatory penalties were reduced, and asset reporting accuracy value is counted in the tens of millions GBP. Due to the project’s success, the staff have been incorporated into a business-as-usual function within the network operator and perform a critical role in maintaining all network data to a high degree of accuracy. The network operator is now a standout performer in the Ofgem league tables where data accuracy is concerned.

Achievements:

• Role definition and Resource plan creation.
• Forty positions were filled within 30 days.
• Positions filled across multiple UK locations
• Exceptional project performance.
• Excellent client feedback.
• Low staff turnover