Arizona Public Service has selected Autodesk to provide utility transmission and distribution design software and consulting services that will help modernize design processes for its electric distribution system. The Autodesk solution will streamline the business processes across the design, build, operate and maintain life cycle; improve data flow and accuracy; and reduce backlogs.

As the largest publicly owned utility company in Arizona, APS serves more than 1 million customers--a number expected to grow by more than 3 percent annually. To manage its expanding transmission and distribution infrastructure and capacity growth, APS is developing an integrated distribution operations management system (DOMS) that will include an efficient, real-time data management system. As this integrated DOMS is built out, real-time accurate and consistent design information will become critical for APS to operate its T&D system.

Currently, APS' design processes rely on a variety of systems and require manual interfaces to leverage engineering design information across GIS, work management and material ordering systems. By streamlining this process and implementing an open, standards-based design tool, APS will eliminate many time-consuming activities and improve the accuracy of its design and material orders.

The Autodesk Utility Design (AUD) solution provides APS with a framework to maximize the value of its engineering design information by applying it to the analysis and building processes. This solution, which includes standard business rules for engineering activities, will also enhance integration of design data with APS' GIS system. By implementing this solution, APS will streamline many cross-divisional operations, allowing staff to:

• Create consistent, intelligent design using standard templates,  engineering calculations and material orders. 
• Improve data integrity through improved process and integration. 
• Turn infrastructure designs around more quickly, helping APS meet the  demands of expanding and updating Arizona's electric infrastructure. 
• Capture existing institutional knowledge in the system, helping  newer, less experienced employees get up to speed quickly.