Opvantek, Inc.
28 South State Street
Newtown, Pennsylvania 18940
phone: 215.968.7790
toll free: 888-244-8674
fax: 215.968.7825

Product Information: Info@opvantek.com
Human Resources: hr@opvantek.com
Customer Service & Technical Support: support@opvantek.com

FAQ's

My data is not that good. Can I benefit from your software?
Yes you can. Optimain DS is designed to make the best use of the data you have, and update your system as new data is gathered. Given our experience with numerous gas systems, Opvantek can fill your data gaps with industry data and statistical analyses and provide you with a good starting point in your risk assessments.

Do you interface with all GIS platforms?
Opvantek interfaces with all GIS platforms including all Smallworld versions and GDO, Esri ArcGIS, and Intergraph.

I do not have a GIS. Can I still use your software?
Definitely. Opvantek has devised an innovative approach to non- GIS situations. In fact, one of our largest customers, NiSource, has been using Optimain DS since 2008 without a GIS. Opvantek created a series of “pseudo” pipes from leak repair records to build Optimain risk projects. No GIS, no problem.

How do you support DIMP compliance?
We support DIMP compliance in several ways. First, we help you to collect and organize pipeline and operations data to improve overall system knowledge. Second, we provide objective risk analysis based on the specific threats outlined in the DIMP rule. Third, we help you to identify and evaluate your alternative actions to mitigate risk and finally, provide powerful analysis and reporting tools. See our Comprehensive DIMP Toolkit page for additional details.

Will your system help me identify gaps in my data?
Yes. As you begin to gather data to implement Optimain DS, the amount and quality of data needed to make a meaningful risk assessment will become readily apparent. This will give you a clear view of what systems and procedures you need to enhance. Remember that no one has perfect data, and a key concept in the DIMP regulation is continuous improvement.

We have numerous information silos. Is that a problem when implementing your software?
No. Opvantek’s team of software professionals are experts in aggregating data from multiple systems, databases, and spreadsheets. Show us where the data resides, and we will find a way to incorporate it in your system.

How much time should we allow for a typical implementation?
A typical implementation is 3-6 months. Of course, every customer is different, and Opvantek presents all customers with a project timeline after reviewing the scope of the project and identifying the number and types of data sources to be configured.

Will we need a large team of employees to implement?
No, Optimain DS does not require a large team to implement. The project will have several key phases from implementation planning and data gathering to installation and testing. A core group of operations subject matter experts, combined with members of your IT team will handle most of the tasks. Many companies find it preferable to have a dedicated Project Manager to monitor schedules and tasks and remove roadblocks.

Do you charge a per seat license for your software?
No, our software is enterprise licensed with no per seat charges. Opvantek encourages customers to authorize multiple users and leverage their system to improve overall operations.

Can you help me get more data (i.e. leaks) in my GIS?
Yes. Opvantek has assembled a powerful and innovative toolkit called Optimain GIS that automatically places assets or events (leaks, services, third party strikes, outages, etc.) in the GIS and associates them with the correct facility. Please refer to the Optimain GPS product description and brochure on the Products Tab or DIMP Toolkit page.

Is your software considered a “black box”?
While we incorporate advanced operations research and project portfolio based analytical processes, Opvantek strives to expose the analytical underpinning of Optimain DS to our users. In other words, Optimain DS is not a “black box” solution. This has enabled our customers to identify significant savings by identifying and implementing cost-effective risk mitigation processes and capital allocation. It also allows you to have visibility of, and confidence in, the risk and economic assessments to support positive, productive interactions with regulatory agencies and stakeholders.

What is your policy for software maintenance and support?
Opvantek provides software support and maintenance on an annual fee basis at the end of the standard software warranty period. This includes standard upgrades, support to end users and customer help desks, and one day of refresher training. Opvantek also offers (for an additional fee) a Premium Support service that keeps your Optimain DS System fully updated, refreshed with the latest system data, and operating efficiently.

How do you encourage customer participation?
Opvantek has just announced its 4th Annual User Group Conference to be held in Broomfield (near Denver, CO) in March 2012. The user group meeting is a great way for customers to share ideas and best practices, and help shape future Opvantek product development. Opvantek also maintains a customer “Wiki” page that contains a wealth of technical and support information that helps users get the most from their Optimain DS systems.