Technology Architecture

The Long-term Viability of any Solution Depends on its Architecture

GeoFields' focus has been to develop specialized applications and processes that are fully integrated and address diverse needs in the pipeline industry. Key elements of our solutions are a common data framework, consistent look-and-feel, and modular application components.

A common data framework means that there is a single reference to which all data is related, whether it is stored within GeoFields' architecture, or accessed from external sources. A consistent look and feel ensures that training is minimized, if not often eliminated. Modularity means that operators have the ability to add new and swap out capabilities as their needs grow and change.

GeoFields has focused on the development of a common application platform that is deployed across many organizations and is configurable to specific user requirements. The collected user-base share the benefit of enhancements to the platform that continuously take place.

GeoFields Solutions are based on Open Standards

The integrating foundation of GeoFields technology is Facility Explorer (FE). FE's primary strengths are its capability to integrate data sets and applications, and to provide a consistent interface to data and applications via a simple web browser. GeoFields has based FE on standard, off-the-shelf technology. It is a fully open architecture, a result of experience accumulated from building applications for many pipeline industry clients.

Scalable Extendable and Modular

FE consists of a server-side component, FE-Server, and a user-side browser-based component, FE-Web. FE-Server is a platform that can scale to incorporate any number of processing engines, and unlimited users. FE-Web provides users with query, data access, maintenance and reporting capabilities over the corporate network, wherever they are and wherever FE-Server is hosted. GeoFields architecture is both highly modular and highly integrated, allowing components to be upgraded and swapped out as needs and technology evolve. Section Two of this guide covers these modules in more detail, beginning with Facility Explorer on page 20.

Integrated with Proven Data Models

GeoFields' open and extensible data model is the basis for the efficient integration of spatial and relational data and, where appropriate, documents. It uses the event data structure of PODS, and combines it with the de facto standard for handling spatial data, ESRI's ArcSDE. This approach ensures that a client's investment is protected and that the focus is on implementing solutions, not rebuilding existing technology. PODS compliance for non-spatial data also ensures openness to any operator or developer. And with the capability to produce ISAT, NPMS and full-PODS compliant output, any external requirements can be met.

As the result of many years accumulated collaboration and effort, GeoFields solutions meet the needs of pipeline companies, and ensure continued return on their investment. The technology choices we have made have been proven time and time again in real world implementations, and help our clients proceed with confidence in partnership with us.