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Municipal collection system managers face increasing demand to monitor and inspect aging infrastructure on a routine basis, often generating substantial amounts of data and files in the process. Our approach addresses this challenge through a living dashboard built on a browser-based GIS network that unifies standard manhole inspection forms, images, 360-degree videos, LiDAR point clouds, CCTV footage and reports, and PipeAid™ defect outputs within one asset-centric environment. The result is a single platform to find, interpret and connect historical data in a one-stop shop that allows for post-processing data collection and rapid organization instead of traditional file storage procedures.

Workflow begins with modernized field data capture strategies, utilizing the latest manhole inspection technology like Trimble Catalyst for surveying in asset location, the iPhone Pro LiDAR scanner to create point clouds of structure and catch missed measurements or piping configurations and the GoPro Max 360 to capture panorama views of the entire structure. This data is hosted online and linked to each asset for quick viewing and access. If CCTV data is available, this historical information can be processed via PipeAid to create a new database of defects and inspection history, linking the inspection video, reports and coding individual defects for a visual representation overlayed onto the GIS inventory.

To move beyond static maps, the platform integrates analysis and visualization tools tailored to collection systems. Attribute filters (such as material, size or inspection status) allow users to rapidly subset assets, for example, isolating VCP segments to review root intrusion trends or structural defects.

In many agencies, inspection deliverables live in shared folders or with individual vendors, making it difficult to locate files, trace data lineage or preserve institutional knowledge when staffing changes occur. By linking each cloud-based media file and attribute directly to the GIS asset ID, the dashboard eliminates the time spent searching through nested directories and keeps legacy knowledge available to the whole team.

Because the solution extends existing web GIS, rather than replacing it, it scales naturally as programs grow. Municipalities can add inspection campaigns, expand coverage areas and allow trained staff to contribute content without disrupting the established workflows.

Further visualization can be achieved by implementing additional applications, like ArcScene, inside the GIS umbrella. 3D scenes have been used to aid in pinpointing the source utility of cross bores, once the defect locations are overlaid. HoloBuilder has been used to create an immersive 3D experience underground, allowing users to navigate virtually from the surface, through manholes and into the sewer.

The practical benefits are significant. Centralized, searchable assets reduce time spent locating files and reconciling datasets. Engineering teams can progress from condition snapshots to prioritized rehabilitation planning, communicating clearly with utility partners and stakeholders using shared, visual context.