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Next page: The all-important contract
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Supervisory control and data acquisition – or SCADA – systems have long been the brains behind electric utility operations, providing insight into performance of critical assets..Now as utilities integrate new technologies on the road to a smarter, self-healing electric grid, the capabilities required of SCADA systems have become increasingly complex. Choosing a SCADA system will require a thoughtful, deliberative approach. With this four-part SCADA Buying Guide – created with input from SCADA experts at DPS Telecom, GE Intelligent Platforms, G&W Electric, Invensys and Survalent Technology – you'll get a sense of the questions you should be asking to help ensure you make the right decision.
Also in this series… · Part 1: A by-the-book scoping process is the best way to get started
· Part 2: Take a lifetime view when budgeting
· Part 3: The 12 questions you must ask to nail the requirements
. By Glenn Booth .
Installation
Questions around installation should focus on the ease of use out of the box.
· How intuitive is the installation?
· What are the pre-requisites to installation and how do OS/back office applications or virus software affect installations?
· How are patches installed and what should you watch out for during patch install?
· What are the upgrade procedures?
Customers should also ask questions regarding shipping method, responsible installation and configuration personnel and handling of software upgrades. / Support
Most SCADA vendors have a yearly support policy. But your utility should do due diligence in checking the level of support delivered per the policy and whether or not the vendor can tailor the policy to suit your processes. . Other support considerations:
· What are the response times and location of support personnel?
· Does the software contain any third-party tools that would need support from some other company? · Does your hardware warranty cover advance replacement units so you can get back online as quickly as possible?
· Does the vendor recognize product customization as a "win-win" proposition for both parties, or will you have to pay for it?
· Can any customization required be completed in a few weeks or months, or will it take a very long time for prototypes to be manufactured overseas?
· Is emergency tech support available 7x24x365, or will you be asked to call back during normal business hours?
· Is "7x24x365" support a real person or just an FAQ page on a vendor website?
Next page: The all-important contract and additional resources >>
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