UPDATE: We have completed GDM v1.0 and are underway with testing. We are in the process of setting up pilot and implementation projects to further test GDM with both vendors and opertors. Let us know if you are interested in participating.
Recent press release below:
With Distribution Integrity Management Program (DIMP) regulations now in place, operators will be developing data collection strategies to ensure compliance. One tool that could help operators in this process is a non-proprietary, industry standard data model for distribution assets and operations. When Pipeline Integrity Management (PIM) regulations were enacted, the Pipeline Open Data Standard (PODS) model was developed to assist transmission operators in managing their data and ensuring regulatory compliance. The PODS model is an open, industry-standard data model that has successfully been used for over ten years to reduce the cost of implementing software and improve interoperability for the pipeline industry.
Now with DIMP there is a similar need for an industry-standard data model for distribution assets and operations. About a year ago, Gas Technology Institute (GTI) initiated a program to develop the Gas Distribution Model (GDM) to meet this need with three specific purposes. First, the model will be used as a data exchange function between operator data models and vendor’s software products to reduce the need for customization. Second, the model can store both transmission and distribution data and will facilitate vertical data integration. Third, GDM could be used as the primary data model for operators to avoid the need for internally developing a model. Additional information on GDM can be found in the attached powerpoint presentation.
The GDM initiative brought together a diverse group of operators, vendors, and industry experts to collaboratively develop a GIS-neutral model that holds promise to reduce the cost of software implementation and improve interoperability. GDM is a flexible model that will grow and expand with continued use and development. GTI has completed GDM v1.0 and is soliciting participation from distribution operators and software vendors in pilot projects. We will be conducting a webinar early next year to provide more information and to demonstrate the capabilities of GDM.
If you are interested in learning more about GDM or participating in pilot implementations, please contact me at 847-544-3492 or alicia.farag@gastechnology.org.
The GTI GPS Research blog is a portal for sharing information on GPS related research and applications for the natural gas industry. Here you will find information on current GTI projects that are leveraging GPS technology to improve efficencies, reduce costs, and decrease risk. This portal also serves as a way to share information, ask questions, or discuss new ideas related to GPS. Click on the links below to learn more about specific research projects.
