bile database. In this case, the work was undertaken by a couple
of students but the authors acknowledge that it would have
been better if the data import had been done by the actual
operators who would use the system. In that case, they could
get close to the system even before they started to use it fully.
After the implementation, there was almost no data handling.
*'Power users" have to implement new maintenance actions (if
required), special user defined test procedures, print reports
and backup the system. This takes about 4 man-hours per
week. Data handling is totally automated by synchronization
of mobile and local databases.
In summary, Elektro Ljubljana identified the following main
cost drivers (not exhaustive) as being critical in the calcula-
Lion of Return On Investment:
* Simplification of new testing regimes (single user interface)
(better employee engagement to new IT systems,
reducing down time)
* Capture and automation of protection and control equipment
test records, with improved quality and validation
(digitization)
* More efficient and effective use of critical expert resources
on site (improved throughput)
* Improved validation and checking of critical protection
settings (improved network stability; reduction of risk)
" More appropriate and more rapid validation testing of
complex, numerical protection devices and systems (improved
knowledge of complex systems performance) and
subsequent integration into utility enterprise systems.
Analysis on actual life cycle costs incurred and benefits generated
from the new IT system is ongoing. The authors will
follow the post-implementation phase of the project and will
report subsequently on their findings. Of specific interest will
be how the utility will leverage the additional information now
available from the network for better asset management and
strategic decision-making.