How SiteMap® Transformed a Complex Utility Project into a Confident, Data-Driven Success

GPRS Project Manager Aaron Bradley leveraged the Subsurface Investigation Methodology (SIM) to deliver interactive, software-driven solutions for a large-scale utility installation at a major plant. The client, planning to install new electrical conduit across more than four acres of their facility, relied on GPRS to help avoid costly utility strikes and ensure safety throughout the process.

Having previously worked with Bradley, the client trusted GPRS to manage the project’s complexity. With detailed records and advanced software tools, Bradley provided a comprehensive, interactive approach that aligned with the client’s goals and ensured a smooth installation.

“I’ve done a couple of smaller locates there. Then they decided to do this huge locate and because there’s going to be such a large section of it completed, they decided to go with us,” Bradley said.

Bridging the Data Gap with Interactive Utility Mapping Solutions

To ensure a smooth and efficient installation process, Bradley delivered proactive solutions using advanced technologies. By combining ground penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic (EM) locators, Bradley created accurate, up-to-date utility records for the client – eliminating guesswork and reducing the need for unnecessary potholing.

This comprehensive approach reflects one of the core principles of the Subsurface Investigation Methodology (SIM), which powers GPRS’ industry-leading 99.8% accuracy. With a multi-technology, interactive approach, Bradley provided the client with actionable data and long-term utility mapping solutions.

Setting the Standard with SIM-Certified Interactive Solutions

At the core of GPRS’ success is the Subsurface Investigation Methodology (SIM) – an operating procedure that guides utility locating professionals in delivering accurate, interactive solutions. SIM emphasizes the use of complementary technologies to ensure accurate results when scanning for buried utilities or assessing concrete slabs.

All GPRS Project Managers are required to earn SIM 101 certification, which includes 80 hours of classroom-based, hands-on training and 320 hours of field mentorship. This rigorous program far exceeds industry norms. For comparison, the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) recommends just eight hours of training and 60 hours of practice for NDT Level 1 certification in GPR.

Through this advanced training and the use of complementary technologies, interactive software, and detailed utility records, GPRS professionals deliver high-quality, data-driven solutions that clients can trust.

SiteMap® Delivers Clarity and Confidence in Complex Utility Environments

The utility landscape at the facility offered a unique opportunity to showcase the power of SiteMap (patent pending) combined with the advanced scanning capabilities of GPRS. Bradley encountered a dense and intricate network of underground infrastructure, including electrical lines, gas lines, and unidentified pipes connecting buildings in unexpected ways.

“There were so many electrical lines and random gas lines, that you wouldn’t expect,” Bradley explained. “[The site also had] unknown pipes that hook up to it in one building and it somehow shoots all the way across the scan area going who knows where. There was just a lot of stuff going in every which way direction.”

To ensure every utility was accounted for, Bradley marked each line with spray paint and flags during the scan. Once complete, the data was uploaded into SiteMap. This allowed the client to securely access field-verified, RTK-positioned records anytime, from any device. Whether in the office or on-site, their utility map was always within reach.

The client expressed their satisfaction with both the process and the results.
“They were definitely happy with me because I got everything done and it all got to them when they needed it,” Bradley shared.

Since the initial scans, Bradley has remained actively involved in the project.
“[The site contact and I] talk pretty regularly about the job,” Bradley said. “I’ve gone back there a few extra times just to re-mark some areas because it’s so massive, they’re doing all this demo, and the marks go away once they tear up the ground.”

Why Interactive Utility Mapping with SiteMap Matters

Accurate utility data is essential for safe excavation and efficient project planning because, according to the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) DIRT Report, up to 94% of utility strikes are caused by inaccurate or missing location data, and this figure has remained largely unchanged in recent years. That’s why having a reliable, up-to-date utility map is more important than ever.

SiteMap was built to address this challenge head-on. As a secure, cloud-based platform, SiteMap provides interactive access to field-verified utility records collected by GPRS. It empowers contractors, engineers, and facility managers to make informed decisions with confidence – whether planning maintenance, managing construction, or preparing for excavation.

The purpose of a utility map is to create a comprehensive visual record of subsurface infrastructure. With SiteMap, that record becomes dynamic, accessible, and easy to share across teams and devices. From desktops to mobile apps, SiteMap ensures critical data is always at your fingertips.

To help reduce the risk of utility strikes and improve job site safety, consider these four essential steps before breaking ground:

1. Call your local 811 to identify public utilities.
2. Hire a professional private utility locator to identify private utilities.
3. Update your Ground Disturbance Policy to require both public and private locating.
4. Use a secure utility mapping platform to store and access your utility data.

SiteMap is your powerful, interactive software solution – designed to help you achieve smarter planning, safer digging, and long-term infrastructure management. Because when accurate utility records are always within reach, you can move forward with clarity and confidence, whether your project spans four acres or forty stories.

Click below to schedule your live, personal SiteMap demo today!