Google Maps

Problem

Who has to keep track of utility assets but doesn't have the budget for a fancy GIS?

Where to find it

maps.google.com

Applications

  • Scaling off distances for force mains, etc.
  • Simple GIS
  • Laying out hydrant flushes for potable utilities
  • Scaling off drainage basins to estimate I&I potential
  • Noting trouble spots, incidents, or repair locations

Wyze Cam

Problem

Who needs to remotely monitor lift stations or other equipment but doesn't have funding for SCADA or doesn't want to run the risk of malicious hacking?

Where to find it

wyze.com/wyze-cam.html

Applications

  • Remote lift station monitoring
  • Security
  • Data logging
  • Troubleshooting (especially for intermittent events)

TweetDeck

Problem

Who has problems like wipes or grease that call for educating the public?

Where to find it

tweetdeck.twitter.com

Applications

  • Automating public information
  • Accepting public comments
  • Cultivating favorable news coverage

Google Calendar

Problem

Who needs help tracking when reports are due, how often maintenance should be performed, and logging basics like flow data?

Where to find it

calendar.google.com

Applications

  • Setting maintenance reminders
  • Logging routine data

Google PhotoScan

Problem

Who has piles of yellowing old papers, O&M manuals you haven't used in years, or missing parts lists?

Where to find it

google.com/photos/scan

Applications

  • Capturing old plan documents
  • Saving troubleshooting checklists
  • Storing maintenance checklists

Mailchimp

Problem

Who feels ignored by utility customers and frustrated by problems that aren't your fault but that you get blamed for anyway?

Where to find it

mailchimp.com

Applications

  • Substitute bill stuffers
  • Sharing local news related to your utility
  • Distributing public information with the help of a messaging calendar

Libre Office

Problem

Who has to submit reports or other documents to decision-makers but can't ever seem to get people to read them?

Where to find it

libreoffice.org

Applications

  • Preparing good-looking printed reports
  • Transforming presentations and documents into PDF format
  • Sketching out schematics and other drawings more effectively than with Paint

Wyze Sensor

Problem

Who needs to detect intruders (or animals or just a basic door-open notification)?

Where to find it

wyze.com/wyze-sense.html

Applications

  • Door ajar notices
  • Highly economical security monitoring
  • Motion sensors to report or confirm valve opening/closing
  • Verifying or recording timing of motion events

Hi-Q MP3 recorder

Problem

Who has equipment making noises you can't replicate over the phone?

Where to find it

hiqrecorder.com

Applications

  • Capturing high-quality sounds from machinery to aid in troubleshooting

Doodle

Problem

Who has to schedule meetings or other events with other people without getting stuck on a never-ending email chain?

Where to find it

doodle.com/en

Applications

  • Scheduling meetings
  • Scheduling service appointments