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60 The Authority │ December Building a “System of Systems” The Authority’s approach, led by Vito, was deliberate. First came the conversion of existing records and the creation of new digital assets. Next was a careful verification process to ensure the data was accurate and trustworthy. Only then did staff begin to manage assets in real time, making GIS the authoritative source for information across the Authority. Finally, the GIS was integrated with other platforms, creating what NBCMA now calls a “system of systems.” This integration is where the Authority’s digital maturity shines. CCTV inspections, CIPP lining projects, hydrant flushing, and painting are all tracked within the same GIS ecosystem. “As-built” drawings have been digitized, providing field crews and office staff with instant access to critical information. Capital planning is supported with clear, transparent data that can be shared with boards, regulators, and residents alike. A major piece of this system is 1MARK™, a real- time Pennsylvania One Call ticket management tool that plugs directly into NBCMA’s ArcGIS web maps. Instead of juggling emails, lists, and phone calls, crews now see tickets mapped to exact dig locations. They can document their work with photos and videos, view details in the field, and even close tickets directly from the map. For a staff stretched thin, the ability to visualize tickets on a route map or drill into a single dig box has been transformative. “Integrating 1MARK™ with our GIS gave us the missing link,” Vito explained. “It’s not just about knowing where the work is — it’s about streamlining the whole workflow from notification to completion.” The Impact on Daily Operations The results of this transformation are already visible in NBCMA’s daily work. Field crews now plan their days more efficiently, mapping out batches of 811 tickets rather than driving back and forth across the township. Managers have a clear view of where resources are being deployed and how much time and material each project consumes. Capital planning is based on real performance data rather than estimates, strengthening the Authority’s ability to justify funding and reimbursement. Most importantly, everyone at NBCMA is working from the same data. The days of conflicting records and misplaced paper maps are gone. Operational efficiency has improved measurably; Pennoni estimates that mapping errors and workflow inefficiencies have been reduced by as much as 30 percent. Preparing for Tomorrow Beyond the immediate improvements, NBCMA’s investment in GIS and integration has positioned the Authority for the challenges ahead. Regulatory requirements such as lead and copper inventories will demand accurate, up-to-date data. Public expectations for transparency will only increase. With its digital foundation, NBCMA is ready to meet both. Vito is quick to emphasize that this wasn’t just about adopting software: “This project was about changing how we work. Pennoni gave us the roadmap, and tools like 1MARK™ made it practical. But it was the team at NBCMA who committed to making the change stick.” Building article continued from page 41. S