Tom Kurtz with Hexagon Asset Lifecycle Intelligence

Scott MacKenzie and Tom Kurtz discuss the importance of asset management in the utility space, highlighting the challenges of tracking and maintaining assets that are not easily visible. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates strategy and execution, leveraging technologies like Hexagon's EAM and network design systems. Kurtz explains how Hexagon's solutions help manage the entire asset life cycle, from maintenance requests to predictive reliability, and stresses the importance of user adoption and data management. They also touch on the benefits of visualizing assets in 3D for better field operations and the role of project portfolio planning in construction and capital investment.

Action Items

• [ ] Reach out to Tom Kurtz on LinkedIn to discuss Hexagon's solutions further.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, highlighting its focus on industrial professionals and their innovations.
• Scott MacKenzie mentions the sponsors, Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, and encourages listeners to visit siemens.com.
• The podcast is broadcasting live from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, targeting professionals in the utility space.
• Scott MacKenzie introduces Tom Kurtz from Hexagon, who is in the "hot seat" to discuss his company and its offerings.

Tom Kurtz's Initial Impressions and Conference Experience

• Tom Kurtz expresses his gratitude for the invitation and shares his excitement about the conference.
• Tom Kurtz describes the diverse range of exhibits at the conference, including trucks, electrical poles, and software.
• Scott MacKenzie and Tom Kurtz discuss the broad scope of the utility space and the various solutions on display.
• Tom Kurtz mentions the importance of asset management and its role in strategic planning for utilities.

Challenges in Asset Management and Regulatory Considerations

• Scott MacKenzie and Tom Kurtz discuss the challenges of managing assets that are not easily visible, such as transformers.
• Tom Kurtz shares a customer's perspective on managing the entire life cycle of assets, not just maintaining them.
• The conversation touches on the importance of proactive and predictive asset management.
• Tom Kurtz explains the need for a strategic approach to asset management, considering both reliability and risk.

Strategic vs. Execution in Asset Management

• Tom Kurtz emphasizes the importance of optimizing strategy and execution in asset management.
• He explains that companies often struggle with executing strategies effectively.
• Tom Kurtz suggests that companies should not wait to achieve 100% execution before implementing strategies.
• The discussion highlights the need for a balanced approach, combining asset performance and maintenance efficiency.

Change Management and Hexagon's Role

• Scott MacKenzie raises the issue of change management and the human element in adopting new technologies.
• Tom Kurtz explains that Hexagon's approach includes recognizing the human aspect and integrating it into the design and deployment process.
• He stresses the importance of involving business and functional leaders in the conversation from the beginning.
• Tom Kurtz discusses the adoption side of implementing new systems, focusing on usability and user adoption.

Streamlining Work Management in Utilities

• Scott MacKenzie asks how Hexagon's EAM platform can streamline work management in the utility space.
• Tom Kurtz outlines the key components of a strong EAM solution, including work management processes and asset hierarchies.
• He explains the importance of spare parts management and inventory planning.
• Tom Kurtz introduces the concept of reality viewer, which allows technicians to visualize facilities and assets in 3D.

Asset Networks and Hexagon Networks

• Tom Kurtz introduces the concept of asset networks, linking EAM systems to network design and operation systems.
• He explains how this integration can provide a broader perspective on asset management, including design and operations.
• Tom Kurtz mentions Hexagon Networks, a product that supports this integration.
• The discussion highlights the benefits of managing assets both within and outside of facilities.

Data Management and Project Portfolio Planning

• Scott MacKenzie asks about keeping current with information and managing data in the utility space.
• Tom Kurtz emphasizes the importance of data management and having a robust data layer.
• He introduces Hexagon Ecosystems, a product for project portfolio planning, which helps manage construction projects.
• The conversation touches on the need for investment planning and tracking project progress.

Conclusion and Contact Information

• Scott MacKenzie wraps up the discussion, expressing his enthusiasm for asset management and its application in the utility space.
• He encourages listeners to reach out to Tom Kurtz via LinkedIn for more information.
• Scott MacKenzie thanks the sponsors, Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, and mentions the upcoming broadcast from DistribuTech.
• The podcast concludes with a reminder to be bold, brave, and innovative in the industrial space.