In the Field
A Case Study
Learn how Apex Engineer Group integrated OnStation into their daily workflow to increase efficiencies and improve documentation.
“How many times are you on a project and you just need to figure out where you are, what station you're at, and it’s just not readily available?”
Brent Muscha, Project Manager
THE CHALLENGE
location, location, location
Location
Knowing the precise location on a jobsite is crucial. Without this information, completing tasks, documenting work, testing, and ensuring compliance becomes nearly impossible. Every action on the site needs to be linked to a station offset. Apex Engineering Group wanted to decrease the amount of time workers spent confirming their location while maintaining accurate documentation.
Typical issues included:
Confirming the exact location of core tests.
Verifying that core samples were filled.
Determining where to paint no-passing zones.
Remembering the specific location of components, like the nut for the gate valve on a newly installed water main.
Needing a surveyor to confirm locations caused inefficiencies and delays.
THE SOLUTION
location-based documentation
“We had to mark the no-passing zones, but the maintenance guys got excited and mowed the ditches taking out the lath.”
Brent Muscha, Project Manager
How It Works
To address these challenges, Apex Engineering adopted OnStation. The app is available on phones, tablets, and desktops, using the device’s GPS signal to pinpoint location. The OnStation team uploads alignment and design files into the app, providing workers with precise location information relevant to the project plans.
Key Features
Flag & Chat
Allows users to document work with a time/date-stamped station offset reference.
Users can link images to the stationing reference in the documentation.
Facilitates communication among users within the app.
For instance, if there was uncertainty about the location of the gate valve nut on the new water main, users could refer to the image of the water main linked to the specific station within the app. Similarly, checking the location of all core samples became straightforward by pulling up the app, eliminating the need to search in live traffic. This feature not only saved time but also enhanced safety by allowing these checks to be done from the safety of a vehicle.
THE RESULT
verified project compliance
By integrating OnStation’s digital stationing software and documentation tools, Apex Engineering successfully streamlined their project management processes. The app allowed them to create comprehensive, location-based project records easily accessible in a central location. This eliminated the need for surveyors or expensive survey equipment to verify locations and improved the documentation of work completion, amendments, and change orders throughout the construction process.
“You can’t always expect surveyors to be at your beck and call when you need them.”
Brent Muscha, Project Manager
THE BENEFIT
improved efficiency
Reduced Staking and Surveying: Minimized the need for frequent staking, re-staking, and surveying.
Time Savings: Verified locations without the need to search for stakes or wait for a surveyor.
Efficient Problem Resolution: Enabled project managers to address potential issues remotely using the Flag and Chat tools.
Streamlined Closeout Documentation: Linked work items to bid items within the app, making closeout documentation more efficient.
Decreased Closeout Disputes: Provided clear proof of compliance and work scope through station-stamped documentation and imagery.
Enhanced Worker Safety: Reduced the need for workers to enter live traffic or active job sites to verify locations.
Apex Engineering’s adoption of OnStation significantly improved their project efficiency, documentation accuracy, and compliance verification. The use of digital stationing software not only streamlined their processes but also enhanced overall safety and reduced the likelihood of disputes. This case study highlights the transformative impact of integrating innovative technology into traditional engineering workflows.
STA: 1786+45 14R
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MM: 461.991
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LL: 30.380179,-95.067204
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LRS: 461.458 2L
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STA: 1786+45 14R = MM: 461.991 = LL: 30.380179,-95.067204 = LRS: 461.458 2L =
From the Field
FREE Stationing Training
Our stationing experts created these training videos to help individuals in the industry learn about the most important aspect of a job… Location!
Stationing is the project locationing system that allows individuals to budget, design, and construct roadway projects. The following lessons will cover the different types of stationing and why they are important.