The National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (www.nrtc.coop) has signed an agreement with Clevest Solutions Inc. (www.clevest.com) to offer the company's products and services to its rural utility members. Through this agreement, NRTC members will have access to Clevest's Mobile Field Force solutions and smart grid deployment software.

“NRTC's electric cooperative members are continually looking for ways to improve operational efficiency,” said NRTC Vice President of Utility Solutions Edward S. Drew. “NRTC selected Clevest's Mobile Field Force and smart grid deployment solutions because they help improve the efficiency of utility operations and integrate well with a wide range of existing technologies. No matter what you have deployed, you can integrate it with a Clevest solution to improve operating efficiency.”

The Mobile Field Force Optimization Solution enables field forces to interact with dispatchers and in-office systems on a real-time basis, streamlining work processes and reducing the time required for scheduling work and dispatching crews. The application can improve productivity through automatic vehicle location, scheduling and dispatch as well as reporting. NRTC members can purchase the modules separately or combined, based on need and budget.

Clevest's smart grid deployment software improves the efficiency, speed and safety of advanced metering infrastructure deployments. The software reduces customer dispute billing caused by meter changeout and helps to ensure the safety of staff when working with live meters.

“The Clevest product line complements NRTC's mission to strengthen business operations and its long-time focus on helping cooperatives operate more efficiently,” said Drew.