Powel-MiniMax has introduced StakeOut 6.6, a powerful new version of its platform for field operations and work order management. StakeOut 6.6 includes significant enhancements, extending the platform to include service order dispatching, vegetation management, field maintenance, storm assessment, joint use, inspections, and AMR deployment, as well as an expanded rule base that enables many more design calculations.

"StakeOut 6.6 is focused on helping utilities work smarter," said Corey Maple, CEO of Powel-MiniMax. "This release represents a comprehensive technology shift from the StakeOut field design tool. StakeOut 6.6 is a complete suite of field operations solutions. It not only offers more features - it effectively field-enables the entire utility."

StakeOut 6.6 allows utilities to use the same technology investment to expand field computing programs beyond design to encompass a much broader range of applications. This release allows customers to start automating their most pressing field tasks, then add new functionality as their needs evolve instead of purchasing new systems. Specifically, StakeOut now offers a comprehensive license manager that gives administrators the flexibility to enable, disable, and assign functions to specific users or groups, leveraging Powel-MiniMax's one-platform concept to simplify IT-related tasks.

"As an integrated component of our Utility Decision Support Platform, StakeOut 6.6. turns the field into an extension of the office," Maple said. "That means all end-users can take advantage of the intuitive simplicity for which StakeOut is known and do their jobs faster and better. This philosophy is the foundation of our operational resource planning solutions: comprehensive systems that are simple to use and deliver measurable operational improvement."

Key StakeOut Server enhancements include:

* Internal construction sheet PDF production. StakeOut 6.6 produces PDF files without third-party printer drivers. This allows users to create construction document PDFs faster, and reduces the expense associated with third-party software.

* Built-in automation scheduler. Users can run automation scripts at scheduled times or at specific intervals. For example, users can execute an automated export/import with an ERP system every four hours or every Friday at midnight.

* Oracle and Microsoft compatibility. StakeOut Server Enterprise Edition can be delivered as a turnkey solution in Oracle 10g or Microsoft SQL Server. Plus, whenever structure configuration changes are made to the StakeOut system's model, StakeOut will automatically restructure the Oracle or SQL server's table structures.

End-users will appreciate the following improvements to StakeOut Editor:

* Integrated E-Picklist. StakeOut Editor offers integrated electronic materials reconciliation. After a new design goes to construction, field crews can make changes to the materials list electronically to accurately reflect the materials actually used for construction. This helps eliminate the additional paperwork typically associated with inventory management and effectively enables crew-level as-builts and work dispatching.

* Improved publishing control and handling. With StakeOut 6.6, users can control construction sheet viewing preferences on individual work orders. Customized publishing preferences stay with the work order whenever it is saved or viewed at the client or server level.

* Digital signature support. StakeOut 6.6 supports digital signatures as a customizable field type. Digital signatures can be added to a work order level or station level, enabling easy digital signature capture useful in vegetation management or design approvals. Digital signatures employ a tamper-proof format and can not be manipulated once they are created.

* Enhanced graphical editing capabilities. StakeOut 6.6 offers new, enhanced drawing tools for creating true arcs. A new background map utility converts overhead and underground conductor features to construction units for appropriate stations. Users can even assign sketched line entities to underground conductor units. Text annotations can be made directly in the "Edit Work Order" window. Plus, new connection settings allow users to employ M3I GPS devices.

* Improved engineering calculations. StakeOut's built-in rule base now includes more structural calculations to help make sure new designs meet NESC regulations and provide reliable service to clients. Engineers can run engineering calculations, tangential wind loading, pole breaking strength, secondary voltage drop, and guy calculations in the field.