Announcing the all new Veracity Connect Platform!

15 October 2015

We’re very excited to share the second generation of our cloud-based community for Utilities!

Today is a big day for all of us at Veracity. We have spent the last 18 months working with (and listening too) a wide array of Utility and Utility Associations. We have consolidated, analyzed and incorporated all of the feedback we received to develop a completely updated version of the Veracity Connect platform. The result is an amazing cloud-based community that unites all of the Veracity Connect features – Mutual Aid, Critical Spares, Surplus Management and Connect Services – into one collaborative community. The new version of Veracity Connect is available now via our new website.

Second generation cloud-based community

We’re launching a fully revamped User Interface, new mobile capability features and many improvements to our Mutual Aid, Critical Spares Management and Surplus Management tools, as well as a new Connect Services feature and enhancements to the MapAnything and Collaboration Tools. In this blog post we highlight the major changes, so read on!

Brand New Interface

We listened to our members’ feedback and we relied on our many years of providing services to Utilities to build a new interface that balances ease of use with a rich feature set. It not only looks great, we made it work even better

Mobile Capability

If there is one message we heard loud and clear from all of our users, it’s the importance of mobile access and mobile capability in today’s 24-7, always on, always connected world. Mobile capability was priority number 1 in our development of the new Veracity Connect, to ensure all of the new and existing tools and features were optimized for smartphones and tablets.

Mutual Aid Management

The new version of Veracity Connect provides member utilities with instant access to diverse categories of service providers, contractors and equipment brokers that can provide personnel, resources and equipment. Emergency Coordinators have instant access to company profiles, available personnel and equipment to proactively prepare for and collaborate during disasters.

Critical Spares Management

The new Veracity Connect takes Critical Spares Management to a new level with member defined spare pooling. Assets and Equipment can be shared with a customized group, based on Association, Affiliation or Region. Ensure reliability, minimize risk and speed recovery with a pro-active collaborative approach to Critical Spares Management.

Surplus Management

The same great Surplus Management features that you’ve come to expect have been enhanced. The new Veracity Connect includes the ability for members to add, update and report on Surplus activity, view offer history, shipping details and payment status. Veracity Connect allows member utilities to “cast a wider net” with their surplus offerings, instantly connecting with thousands of utilities, brokers and end users.

Connect Services

The new version of Veracity Connect provides member utilities with instant access to diverse categories of service providers, contractors and equipment brokers that can provide personnel, resources and equipment. Emergency Coordinators have instant access to company profiles, available personnel and equipment to proactively prepare for and collaborate during disasters.

MapAnything

Veracity Connect has enhanced our successful partnership with Cloudbilt, to provide the MapAnything visualization tool. MapAnything allows members to search and view information on Mutual Aid, Critical Spares and Connect Services to quickly locate the most effective and efficient result.

Collaboration

The improved collaboration features let you create, share and configure your information in real time. Share files, send instant messages and consolidated communication in as many groups as you like. Diverse teams from multiple utilities can work together in any number of ways.

What will the future bring?

We have put a lot of effort into this version and we can’t wait to continue to improve the new Veracity Connect day by day. You can look forward to regular releases and we would love to get your honest feedback – only through that we can really improve. For more news on Veracity Connect’s developments, follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and on our blog.

Try it now

The new version of Veracity Connect is available now via our new website at http://veracityamg.com. Did we mention that it’s free, give it a try!

We hope you enjoy the new version of Veracity Connect, and we look forward to your feedback.

The Veracity Connect team

Electric Cities of Alabama (ECA) Selects Veracity Connect for Emergency Preparedness!

July 27^th, 2015 – Veracity Asset Management Group, the category-defining Mutual Aid & Critical Spares Management solution provider, announced today that Electric Cities of Alabama (ECA) will implement Veracity Connect to automate and manage Emergency Preparedness for its members.

The Veracity Connect solution enables utilities of all sizes to proactively prepare for and collaborate during disasters. Veracity Connect was developed with input from a number of different public power utilities, State Associations and Joint Action Agencies.

“ECA has a long tradition of working together to ensure a speedy recovery from storms in a timely and safe manner”, said Jon Hand, ECA Executive Director. “Sending crews to lend a helping hand to our fellow electric cities is part of who we are. When a disaster occurs, ECA members help each other get back on their feet.”

The implementation of Veracity Connect will enhance the processes ECA currently uses and will provide ECA with the tools they need to ensure an effective, efficient, and expeditious coordination effort.  ECA is following the lead of the American Public Power Association (APPA) and has taken an industry leading, proactive approach to Mutual Aid planning and preparation. Through these efforts, ECA truly creates value for its public power members.

About Electric Cities of Alabama (ECA)

Electric Cities of Alabama (ECA) is a coalition of the state’s municipally owned electric utilities. Alabama’s electric cities span the state from the Tennessee Valley region in the north to the Gulf and Wiregrass regions of the south. Together, our members serve approximately one million customers in 36 cities.

About Veracity Asset Management Group

Veracity is a consulting, services and software firm focused on providing unique solutions to Utilities and Utility Associations across North America.  Veracity has developed Veracity Connect, a proprietary technology that allows member Utilities and Associations to access and share information related to mutual aid management and critical spare equipment.

CHEC Selects Veracity Connect for Collaboration Project

March 9^th, 2015 – Veracity Asset Management Group, the category-defining Mutual Aid & Critical Spares Management solution provider, announced today that the Cornerstone Hydro Electric Concepts Association (CHEC) will conduct a pilot project utilizing Veracity Connect to foster collaboration and enable members to create effective shared services models.

The Veracity Connect solution provides utilities of all sizes with Emergency Preparedness tools to proactively prepare for and collaborate during disasters, both large and small. Veracity Connect was developed with input from a number of different public power utilities, State Associations and Joint Action Agencies.

The implementation of Veracity Connect will allow CHEC to enhance the benefits it provides to its members. The Veracity Connect features include Mutual Aid Management, Critical Spares Management, Collaboration Tools, Asset Management, Mapping Module and a Member Marketplace.

About Cornerstone Hydro Electric Concepts

CHEC, an association of 15 local distribution companies (LDCs) is modeled after a cooperative to combine resources and competencies to best meet the requirements of the changing electrical industry and provide a high standard of locally supplied customer service.

CHEC has allowed members to exchange ideas on a variety of issues facing utilities, to initiate combined solutions and to share insights on what worked and what did not. The cooperative format allowed a “think tank” environment to be created between members.

About Veracity Asset Management Group

Veracity is a consulting, services and software firm focused on providing unique solutions to Utilities and Utility Associations across North America.  Veracity has developed Veracity Connect, a proprietary technology that allows member Utilities and Associations to access and share information related to mutual aid management and critical spare equipment.

Happy New Year! May 2015 bring you Happiness & Success!

Learn more about our Mutual Aid & Critical Spares Management Solution for Utilities: Make electrical equipment procurement easy and efficient. Locate a matching power transformer before a failure occurs!

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Subscribe to our Veracity’s monthly newsletter: Critical Spares Management & Investment Recovery for Utilities

Veracity Is Hiring! Programmer Analyst Intern Position

Employment Opportunity

Programmer Analyst Internship (1 year contract)

Veracity Asset Management Group provides emergency preparedness services to Utilities across North America, helping them manage mutual aid, critical spares and surplus assets. Veracity completely changes the way Utilities respond to extreme weather and critical equipment failures by offering Veracity Connect, a web based platform that increases collaboration and offers a new and better way to proactively search and access critical equipment throughout North America. Veracity has an immediate opening for a Programmer Analyst.

DUTIES:

• To improve and/or develop applications in order to meet users’ needs by finding solutions, solving complex or moderately complex problems, making estimates concerning work to be done, programming, testing, debugging and documenting systems.
• To take part in all project phases to ensure project completion by co-operating with and offering advice to users, by meeting deadlines and communicating status reports.
• To provide on-call support for production systems to guarantee their functionality.  To make sure that systems are optimal and meet the quality standards of the business area by making analyses, suggestions and developing assessments.  To make recommendations and to participate in improving development and system maintenance processes.

SKILLS:

• Bachelor degree, or post-secondary diploma/certificate with equivalent work experience
• Development experience or similar
• Hands-on experience with the configuration, customization and integration of within the Force.com platform
• Advanced Force.com development and configuration: custom app development and VisualForce development experience
• Force.com development and configuration including:
• Formulas and workflows
• Approval processes
• Custom objects and fields
• Role hierarchies and Sharing Rules
• Sales Processes
• Page layouts
• Record types
• Profiles
• Reporting
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Good problem solving and analytical skills
• Strong team player
• Make-it-work attitude under firm deadlines.

INTERNSHIP ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA – Successful candidates must:

• Unemployed or underemployed;
• Under the age of 30;
• Have graduated within the last three years with a degree/diploma from an accredited college/university;
• Have not been previously employed under a FedNor Youth Internship funding agreement, or other federal or provincial internship with pay for a period of six (6) months or more;
• Be legally entitled to work in Canada;
• Candidates must have reliable transportation.

SALARY:

This full-time, one-year contract position is partially funded by FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program.

Submit application by December 31, 2014.

Rob Krysa
Veracity Asset Management Group
Suite BT 2012, 1520 Queen Street East
Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2G4
Ph: 705 542 4821
Fax: 705 942 6169
rkrysa@veracityamg.com

We would like to thank applicants for their interest; however only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

This Project is Proudly Supported by:

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Learn more about our Mutual Aid & Critical Spares Management Solution for Utilities: Make electrical equipment procurement easy and efficient. Locate a matching power transformer before a failure occurs!

Stay updated through our social media platforms and our website:

Subscribe to our Veracity’s monthly newsletter: Critical Spares Management & Investment Recovery for Utilities http://eepurl.com/LVtY1 http://ow.ly/i/73Jj2

Utilities News Roundup! November – December

Nuclear

Panel hears bids for storage of nuclear waste http://ow.ly/DoyRO “Southern California Edison’s Community Engagement Panel met on Oct. 14 to hear bids from the two final companies vying to create storage for nuclear waste at the decommissioned San Onofre Power Plant.” #power

Entergy: $1.24B Is Needed to Decommission Vermont Yankee Nuclear http://ow.ly/Dqile #nucleardecommission

End Of Life Costs For #Nuclear Power A Real Concern http://ow.ly/Et9EM 200 nuclear reactors have to be shut down by 2040: who will lead the #decommissioning projects… and how much will be the bill? #power

Utilities

Georgia Power named IOU of the Year for innovation, industry collaboration and leadership in the solar energy http://ow.ly/DpSIs #IOU #utility

Hydro One Invests to Refurbish Ontario Michigan Interconnection Transmission Circuit http://ow.ly/Dq9Bm “The $6.8 million investment refurbished 24 towers on the 5.5-km circuit that runs from Sarnia Scott TS to the Mid River Junction Bunce Creek at the St. Clair River.” #powertransmission

Massachusetts Tops California as Most Energy-Efficient State http://ow.ly/DpWRm #Massachusetts #energy #utilities

LG&E, Kentucky Utilities to add up to 737MW of gas generation http://ow.ly/Dq36g #Kentucky #gasplant

Old Is New Again in the Utility Industry http://ow.ly/DKPto #utility #power

Infographic: The World’s Ten Largest Power Plants http://ow.ly/DL2gx “with the top 5 located in China and South America.” #powerplant #China

NERC troubled about EPA Clean Power Plan impact on grid reliability http://ow.ly/E4p0E “The NERC assessment, Potential Reliability Impacts of EPA’s Proposed Clean Power Plan, provides recommendations for further analyses to ensure continued system reliability.” #grid #utilities

AES to provide 1,284 MW of gas power to replace San Onofre http://ow.ly/E4qTs “AES has been awarded 20-year contracts by Southern California Edison (SCE) to provide 1,284 MW of combined cycle gas-fired generation” #gaspower

Alstom delivers demand response system to Con Edison http://ow.ly/E8qyK “The product is based on Alstom’s e-terra DRBizNet 3.0​, and provides utilities the ability to compensate energy flow and optimize existing assets.” #utilities

Awards for failure-free operation of EB transformers http://ow.ly/E8sQ0 “Over the past five years, transformer failures have come down to 6.25 per cent from 13 per cent in the Tiruchi region which has over 40,000 transformers” #utilities #powertransformers

Northern Michigan is facing a power crisis. How will it be fixed? http://ow.ly/E8z6L #Michigan #powergeneration

BC Hydro, LNG Canada sign #power deal; project still not official http://ow.ly/ESoMa “The deal […] comes as the Liberal government announced the power rates for LNG proponents.”

#Keystone XL price tag hits US$8B amid regulatory stalling http://ow.ly/ESfLD #Albertaoilsands

FERC issues decision on Duke-Progress merger…after three years http://ow.ly/ESt1X #power

Opower, FirstFuel partnership yields ‘major expansion’ with #utility customer http://ow.ly/Et5n5 The partnership allies data #analytics and utility software systems.

FERC Issues Order Authorizing the Disposition of Facilities Re Portland General Electric Company Under EC14-147 http://ow.ly/EtBTL “The Boardman Project includes a 642.2 MW coal-fired generating facility, interconnection facilities to the Slatt Substation and a line used to deliver station power to the generating facility that runs from PacifiCorp’s 230 kV Dalreed Substation” #substation

Here’s what to expect for #utility rates in 2015 http://ow.ly/EtIA2 average increase of 1.9 %

 

International

Coal gets cold shoulder from Denmark and Germany http://ow.ly/DK9kV “Denmark and Germany have outlined plans to decrease or potentially eliminate coal plants as part of a push to meet climate goals. ” #coal #denmark #germany

Abengoa to develop in Belgium the largest #biomass power plant in the world http://ow.ly/E8wVo Capacity of 215 MW, €315M

#Oman Enhances #Power Delivery http://ow.ly/ESPHZ 6 new substations will be commissioned to answer electric demand

Dhaka, Moscow finalise action plan for Rooppur #nuclear power plant http://ow.ly/EtHlN #Russia

Traces of #Fukushima Radiation Detected Off #California Coast http://ow.ly/EuqzU A priori no harm

Duke Energy announces plans to begin removing #coal ash from four North Carolina sites http://ow.ly/EuCoq ““The initial work at these facilities will help us assess various approaches for the closure plans at our remaining 10 North Carolina facilities,” said Elnitsky.”

Physical & Cyber Security, Extreme Weather Events

Critical infrastructure sees upgrades since Sandy devastation http://ow.ly/DoLvU States and utilities have improved flood protection, more resistant residential, public services infrastructures and the power grid. #superstorm

Beyond NERC: best practices for worst-case scenarios http://ow.ly/CcjdB “Plan for recovery as well as prevention.” This is why we offer utilities Veracity Connect, a platform to source critical spares, like transformers, in North America #NERC #reliability #criticalasset

Winter utility assistance plans available http://ow.ly/DK3B9 “With the onset of colder weather in Northeast Ohio, several programs are offering financial assistance to customers who may have difficulty keeping up with the costs of their utilities.”  #utilities

Remember Sandy: Two-Year Anniversary http://ow.ly/DKW78 “Hurricane Sandy affected 24 states, including the entire eastern seaboard from Florida to Maine and west across the Appalachian Mountains to Michigan and Wisconsin, with particularly severe damage in New Jersey and New York.” #superstorm #hurricane #utilities

Municipally-owned CPS Energy putting San Antonio on the forefront of smart cities http://ow.ly/E8myQ “The grid of the future will be more than a one-way delivery system for electricity. It will be a platform for information and services that we’ve barely begun to imagine,” said Doyle Beneby, CEO of CPS Energy. #smartcity

#Cyber-attack causes major breach of software controlling critical U.S. infrastructure http://ow.ly/E8tIG The malware [BlackEnergy], although not yet live, can activate anytime and leave these processes susceptible to failure or malfunctioning.

How four U.S. #utilities are tackling big data http://ow.ly/ERh8D Utilities are well decided to start diving into big data. What will be the outcome? #bigdata

U.S. Orders Electric Utilities to Secure Sites From Attack http://ow.ly/ERay7 Physical #security is becoming a major concern for utilities and industry partners.

Storm Hardening the Grid http://ow.ly/E8jhM Are you ready for the coming #storms? We can help you with mutual aid agreements http://ow.ly/E8juF #utilities #mutualaid

In Orleans, no #storm but responders active http://ow.ly/ERxlS Maximize your mutual aid agreements with Veracity Connect http://ow.ly/ERxHq #mutualaid

Weather Forecasts North America 2015 http://ow.ly/ESRxQ Temperatures above normal…which means more snow than usual! Turn your mutual aid agreement on with Veracity http://ow.ly/EucON #mutualaid

Renewables & Smart Grid

FERC: Renewables account for 40% of capacity additions this year http://ow.ly/DtaYY “According to FERC, there are 62.3 GW of installed wind and another 9.74 GW of solar, but those make up less than 6% of total capacity. The bulk, some 42% of the total, is still gas-fired.” #renewable #utilities

New Renewables Will Require #Transmission Upgrades http://ow.ly/DpMzS “is it that simple?”

Georgia is the nation’s fastest growing #solar market http://ow.ly/ERMAn “Solar-related jobs in the state grew 225% last year”

Are #Microgrids a Myth? http://ow.ly/ESOoF Should utilities promote distributed energy resources?

New analysis: U.S. is world’s number one #wind energy producer, leading China and Germany http://ow.ly/ExvpS “Over $120 billion worth of U.S. wind projects have been installed since the year 2000.”

Smart Grid Networking, Communications Technologies Spending Expected to Total $30 Billion over Next 10 Years http://ow.ly/advanced

 

Company News

Veracity is now a proud Silver Associate Member of the NRECA! Cooperatives are essential to the U.S. electric grid. We help coops source critical spares through the power of collaboration: http://ow.ly/Dx7Hp +NRECA #coops #electricgrid

We are proud of being an associate member of the Michigan Municipal Electric Association! veracityamg.com #electricity #collaboration

As a municipal utility or coop, become a Veracity Connect Member to source critical spares http://ow.ly/i/7nB9u http://ow.ly/DtMxC

We wouldn’t have been able to go to Georgia without the help of the #softlanding14 Program. Thanks to @CDMN for helping us #GrowGlobal

 

Recovering value from plant decommissioning? http://ow.ly/xjC1d #decomissioning #powerplant #utilities #energy http://ow.ly/i/79MkB

Decommissioning Projects – Why it takes so long & costs so much: http://wp.me/p2EjZw-7I Share it & share your expertise!

Join the Investment Recovery Canada group and find opportunities for your Canadian company: http://ow.ly/zymGu http://ow.ly/i/7nCOH

Turning your surplus equipment into a financial reward: this is called investment recovery: http://ow.ly/yzrN7 http://ow.ly/i/641yF

Aging grid assets? How to know which equipment to replace and when http://ow.ly/D3B4M Get some help from Veracity Connect: http://ow.ly/D3C2m

#Asset Redeployment Checklist http://wp.me/p2EjZw-8S We assist you in choosing the best option for idle #equipment http://ow.ly/EVCgb

 

Renewable or not, the energy you provide requires an emergency plan if a transformer fails: http://ow.ly/BZJ7k http://ow.ly/i/7nBT6

We know what you go through as a utility company when you look for a spare transformer – Veracity Connect http://ow.ly/BZJ7k #utilities #power http://ow.ly/i/7nByl

Looking for #power transformers? Veracity Connect helps you get in touch with other #utilities, OEM & resellers http://ow.ly/DOC9S

Don’t be left in the dark when a transformer failure occurs – Veracity Connect http://ow.ly/BZJ7k http://ow.ly/i/

Binder, spreadsheet, buddy system… you deserve better to source critical spares for your utility company. Contact us & Try Veracity Connect: http://ow.ly/BonlR

Our surplus utility equipment catalogue is now available! http://ow.ly/DLcVN Check it regularly and contact us if you are interested in some of the featured items! #utility #surplus #powertransformer

 

A cloud platform that helps you source critical spares and reinforce your mutual aid agreement? It exists: Veracity Connect http://ow.ly/Aua0t LinkedIn: http://ow.ly/AuacD

Transformer Fleet, Mutual Aid & Asset Disposition are components of Veracity Connect: http://ow.ly/ET0a7 http://ow.ly/i/7Invt

Are you a #utility? Have instant access to mutual aid contacts & resources with Veracity Connect http://ow.ly/ExDtr

 

Join us on LinkedIn page http://ow.ly/ET5kW We help #utilities source critical spares & maximize mutual aid http://ow.ly/ET5kX

Why Using Spreadsheets is a Risk for Your Supply Chain http://wp.me/p2EjZw-76 #spreadsheet #supplychain http://ow.ly/i/7jbDs

Subscribe to our Veracity’s monthly newsletter: Critical Spares Management & Investment Recovery for Utilities http://eepurl.com/LVtY1 http://ow.ly/i/73Jj2

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 Learn more about our Critical Spares Management Solution for Utilities: Make electrical equipment procurement easy and efficient. Locate a matching power transformer before a failure occurs!

Stay updated through our social media platforms and our website:

Veracity Is Part of the CDMN’s Outbound Soft Landing Program

The Canadian Digital Media Network (CDMN), a federal Centre of Excellence in Commercialization and Research, is dedicated to establishing Canada as a world leader in digital media (ICT + mobile) by creating and enabling connections and collaboration between entrepreneurs, companies, research institutes, government and intermediary organizations across the country. CDMN helps bring more digital media solutions to market to create more companies, jobs and wealth in Canada.

With a worldwide network, CDMN guide startup companies target new markets.

Veracity Asset Management Group (www.veracityamg.com) participates in the Canadian Digital Media Network’s Outbound Soft-Landing Fall 2014 Program to help forge the partnerships and connections with utilities it needs for its expansion across North America. Georgia, Alabama, Florida and North Carolina are some of the States targeted by Veracity through its Soft-Landing trip.

CDMN Press Release

“Outbound Soft Landing program announces fall cohort, with new support from TD

By Emmett O’Kane on Sep 26, 2014 / Categories: CDMN News, Featured, Soft LandingFifteen Canadian companies have been selected to participate in the Canadian Digital Media Network’s outbound Soft Landing program this fall, and they’ll have a new supporter in their corner.TD Bank Group, North America’s sixth largest bank by branches, has partnered with the CDMN to help small- to medium-sized enterprises pursue growth in international markets.“‎TD is very pleased to be supporting the Canadian Digital Media Network Outbound Soft Landing program, which provides funding to promising startups selected by the CDMN, in order to promote their growth opportunities abroad,” said Jeff Martin, SVP & CIO Digital Channels Technology Solutions, TD Bank Group.Companies selected will receive up to $4,000 towards travel costs and a free working space at partnered locations abroad for up to three months, to help them expand into new markets and develop relationships with key contacts in targeted economies.The Fall 2014 companies are:

Plasticity Labs

Landing: U.S. (Las Vegas)

Plasticity is building the happiest workforces every day, through an integrated mobile and web app that changes how organizations measure, manage and stimulate positive workplace culture. Its mission is to improve the experience of life, and work, for millions of people and the organizations where they work. http://www.plasticitylabs.com/

Maerospace Corp.

Landing: India

Maerospace’s mission is to improve the world through the mastery of data. Working with some of the world’s most advanced companies and nations, Maerospace turns complex data into actionable information to make missions safer, borders more secure, environmental responses more effective and companies more profitable. http://www.maerospace.com/

Slimcut Media

Landing: U.S. (New York City)

Slimcut Media helps digital publishers increase their revenue while engaging their audiences. With offices in Toronto and Paris, their platform combines a reward program, targeted video advertising and a payment system to build a symbiotic relationship between publishers and their audiences. http://www.slimcutmedia.com/

blueRover

Landing: Australia

blueRover provides a unique and advanced technology platform that offers businesses employing machine-to-machine (M2M) applications access to infinite, data-driven intelligence about their assets. With blueRover, customers can monitor, track and react to real-time data about their assets and resources from anywhere around the globe. http://www.bluerover.ca/

Bonfire

Landing: U.S. (Orlando; Dallas; Charlotte)

Bonfire prides itself on making the easiest, simplest and friendliest way for purchasers to accept and evaluate supplier proposals, tenders, quotes as part of RFx (request for information, proposal or quotation), bid projects and more. The Waterloo-based company is already trusted with over $1 billion in procurement projects with much more to come. http://www.gobonfire.com/

I Think Security

Landing: Hong Kong

I Think Security Ltd. is an award-winning R&D security lab that provides secure solutions for data, cloud and mobile. Supported by sophisticated analytics and control, and leveraging existing local infrastructure, I Think Security Ltd. products are backed by a team of security professionals experienced in designing and implementing the highest in advanced security. Its technologies are used in data protection to prevent cyber attacks, corporate espionage and insider threats. http://www.ithinksecurity.com/

Analyze Re Inc.

Landing: London, CTA@UK

Analyze Re provides pricing and risk management software for the reinsurance industry. Their innovative SaaS platform employs high-performance computing and big data analysis to unlock a holistic view of risk, enabling reinsurers to make smarter decisions, minimize their risk and maximize their profits in real time. http://www.analyzere.com/

REfficient Inc.

Landing: Mexico

REfficient.com is a matchmaking site connecting “who has what” and “who is looking for what.” Its online marketplace allows companies to buy quality Telecom, A/V and IT equipment at significant discounts from sustainable sources. REfficient shows customers that they can drive financial results while doing something good for the environment. http://www.refficient.com/

ProjectSpeaker Inc.

Landing: London; Munich; Venice

ProjectSpeaker turns event planners into event heroes. Their platform is a curated event planner resource of the world’s leading speakers, speakers bureaus and event suppliers that allows planners to be more efficient and successful in finding the best speakers for their events. http://www.projectspeaker.com/

MetricAid Inc.

Landing: U.S. (Philadelphia)

MetricAid provides browser-based technology, analysis and consultation services to improve hospital emergency department efficiency. Its goal is to improve the satisfaction of the patient, the experience of the physician and the effectiveness of the emergency department. http://www.metricaid.com/

District M Inc.

Landing: U.S. (New York City; Florida)

District M is a digital technology company that specializes in unique campaign management. Its exclusive and proprietary advertising technology segments data and user profiles, giving clients the ability to reach diverse and specific audiences at the right time. http://www.districtm.ca/

Veracity Asset Management Group

Landing: U.S (Georgia; Florida; Alabama; North Carolina)

Veracity Asset Management Group works with organizations across various industries to develop policies and procedures to maximize asset utilization. Veracity provides software solutions and services that enable its customers to purchase, manage and dispose of surplus assets, allowing organizations to focus on core business issues. http://www.veracityamg.com/

LemonFree.com

Landing: U.S. (California)

LemonFree.com is a fresh and simple approach to shopping for cars online. Launched in 2007 by three Winnipeg entrepreneurs, LemonFree.com is an online automotive shopping and research marketplace with the mission to become the most trusted place to shop for a car. http://www.lemonfree.com/

INETCO Systems Ltd.

Landing: London, CTA@UK

INETCO Systems offers real-time transaction monitoring and analytics software that isolates IT performance issues affecting ATM, POS, Mobile Banking and Internet Banking transactions. In addition to software, INETCO offers consulting in APM, Business Transaction Management analytics reporting, and configuration services. http://www.inetco.com/

Energy Aware Technology Inc.

Landing: U.S. (Silicon Valley)

Founded in 2005, Energy Aware Technology is a leading developer of demand management solutions for utilities and aims to improve awareness of the ways we use energy, enabling us to reduce waste, save money and become more sustainable. By analyzing energy consumption data and displaying it in a concise, useful manner, people more fully understand their energy use and how to save money. This is how Energy Aware is creating smarter, more sustainable homes. http://www.energy-aware.com/

© 2014 CDMN. All rights reserved. Contact CDMN at info@cdmn.ca for permission to reproduce in any way.”

Learn more about our Critical Spares Management Solution for Utilities:

Don’t miss a chance to get in touch with us by calling us at 866-694-1252 or info@veracityamg.com. Find out how we can help your utility company source critical spares.

Visit our website veracityamg.com, our blog http://wordpress.veracityamg.com and our social media platform:

 

Your Veracity Connect Newsletter – Volume 6

The Transformer Problem

The consequences of a transformer outage can be potentially catastrophic. From a 20-minute interruption to a several day outage, the failure of a single transformer can leave thousands of customers in the dark and in some cases can result in significant revenue losses.

According to a recent Willis North America Article (March 2008), The Transformer Problem, “transformers have for decades been ranked in the top five (5) by equipment insurers in terms of claims”. To magnify the importance of this issue, a June 2012 study, Large Power Transformers (LPTs) and the US Electric Grid by the U.S. Department of Energy indicated that “the average age of LPTs installed in the United States is approximately 40 years, with 70 percent of LPTs being 25 years or older and some as old as 70 years that are still operating in the grid”. The same source also noted that the useful life of these transformers, as estimated by manufacturers is typically 35 to 40 years.”

Replacing this aging infrastructure is one of the key challenges faced by today’s Utilities. Compounding the challenge is the fact that the “average price of copper more than quadrupled between 2004 and 2011, costing more than $4.27 a pound by 2011” causing the cost of transformers to skyrocket. Willis North America has indicated that “a large transformer that cost $500,000 in 1960 (there are many of this size and vintage still in use), now has a replacement cost of about $4,000,000”. Long lead times also create challenges, with the lead time for a new unit approaching an average of 18-24 months.

In response to these challenges, Veracity Asset Management Group developed Veracity Connect, a proactive critical spares management system. Veracity Connect links utilities, Cooperatives, OEM’s and leading transformer brokers to establish a pool of available critical spares.  Veracity Connect allows utilities the ability to quickly locate matching spare transformers and capital equipment across North America all in one location.

Learn more at www.veracityamg.com. Contact us today at 866-694-1252 or info@veracityamg.com to become a Veracity Connect Member.

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Veracity Connect: Your Critical Spares Management Solution

• Instant access to critical spares such as transformers
• Power of collaboration: reach utilities, OEMs, brokers and industry partners across North America
• Proactive approach: understand where matching spares are before you need them
• Take advantage of pooling/sharing strategies for economies of scale

Contact us now to become a Veracity Connect Member!

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A glimpse of the assets we manage for our clients:

• Substation transformers
• Pad mount transformers
• Pole mount transformers
• Switchgear
• Surplus line trucks
• Steam turbines
• Transmission towers
• LED street lights, such as:

Brand new VIVIX LRL3 and LRL4, 120-277 VAC, 50/60 Hz, full 10-year warranty

Contact us now at 866-694-1252 or info@veracityamg.com

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The 7 R’s of Investment Recovery

 In our continuing segments on the 7 R’s on Investment Recovery we concentrated on number 4: RESELL. We focused on the importance of placing used and unwanted assets back into the market by reaching out to end users or third party dealers and asset management companies.

We are continuing this month with our focus on 5 and 6: RECLAIM and RECYCLE.

Reclamation is a synonym of recycling. It is the process of recovering substances and materials in a pure or usable form from equipment, such as oil in transformers, lithium from batteries or mercury from LCD screens. The difference with recycling is that the substances are recovered but not reprocessed.

Recycling, internally or via recycling facilities, usually involves a specific process where a type of material, such as ferrous and non-ferrous metals, glass or plastic is fused and turned into new, raw materials.

Recycling is strongly recommended. It is essential to reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfills, especially hazardous substances like PCBs. Income can be generated by recycling and reduces the need for virgin materials.

Recycled materials can directly be reused by your company or sent back to the raw material streams. The recycling facility should provide you with certifying documentation, useful to preserve your audit trail and your company reputation.

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Veracity will participate in the Canadian Digital Media Network’s Soft-Landing Fall 2014 Program to help forge the partnerships and connections to take on the U.S. market.

“The Soft-Landing Program has already resulted in millions of dollars in new business and investment for our participating companies and generated more than a 30x return on CDMN’s investment of funds and resources,” said Kevin Tuer, CDMN’s Managing Director.

For more information about the program, please visit www.cdmn.ca/soft-landing-program/overview/

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Catch up on our last company blog posts!

• Transformers: An Essential Link of the Electrical Grid
• Key points from “Economic Benefits of Increasing Electric Grid Resilience to Weather Outages”
• Investment Recovery: the Missing Link in the Supply Chain
• The Trade Show Season Is Open

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Stay updated through our social media platforms and our website:

Learn more about our Critical Spares Management Solution for Utilities: Make electrical equipment procurement easy and efficient. Locate a matching power transformer before a failure occurs!

Why Using Speadsheets is a Risk for Your Supply Chain

In the recent white paper “Spreadsheet Risk is the Number One Threat to Supply Chain Excellence”, Logility puts spreadsheets in the spotlight and make us think about how they can sabotage your supply chain.

Logility’s Spreadsheet Definition

A spreadsheet is:

1. an interactive computer application program organizing and analyzing data in tabular form.

2. no way to run a supply chain!

Spreadsheets are a common tool usually set by default on computers. Easy to create and handle, a spreadsheet allows you to store a significant amount of data. Formulas and cross-functions are a big asset with data analysis.

From the retailer to the multimillion company, Excel and the Excel-like software have settled on PCs, and have quickly become the favorite tool of numerous employers/employees, and especially in the supply chain field.

Spreadsheets: The Authority in Supply Chain Software?

As Logility points out, spreadsheets have spread for 3 main reasons:

1. Excel and Open Office spreadsheets answer supply chain managers’ needs in a better way than Enterprise Resource Planning systems which usually lack of flexibility. Customized modules require a bigger budget. Spreadsheets are the cheapest (if not free) alternative. Moreover it is common for ERPs to use spreadsheets to load data into their system.
2. Easy to buy and access, spreadsheets software is a must in the PC’s tool box. Unless you go with Linux or build your own computer, chances are that it will be in your default programs.
3. Supply chain managers need tools that they can customize and adapt to their products. Demand, inventory, transportation and manufacturing planning are some of the aspects covered by managers.

“More than 200 million people worldwide use spreadsheet applications and about one-third of people spend more than half their working days using them” (Robert Kugel, Ventana Research, “Make Spreadsheet Competence a Priority,” June 2012)

We are millions using them… but how many of us have thought about their drawbacks?

Limits: Spreadsheets, a Tangled Octopus

• Lack of training. A 2011 study by ClusterSeven, titled “Spreadsheet Risk Management within UK Organisations,” shows that 57% of users have never received proper training…

• …Which leads to a significant number of errors: Coopers and Lybrand, in the article “How to Make Spreadsheets Error-Proof” published in the Journal of Accountancy, estimated that 90% of spreadsheets with more than 150 rows contained errors.

• Maintenance is key, but time-consuming as well. Proof-reading should be a must, but who will spend another 2 hours checking if the entered data is right?

• Spreadsheets become a jungle for a supply chain manager when it comes to deal with different time periods, product life-cycle and forecast models.

• Difficulty of sharing spreadsheet information: you may spend a lot of time on Excel and then send the spreadsheets to your colleagues. But contrary to a cloud-based solution, and unless you make sure to send documents after every update, it can be tricky for your colleagues, especially from other departments, to use the right document version. Think about when it comes to merge data… not easy as pie.

• Each person has his or her way to edit spreadsheets and may use different guidelines. Formatting may differ, causing errors and misunderstanding.

• Excel will not tell you when something is wrong in your inventory or manufacturing planning: contrary to ERPs, you will not see a red flag. Every time data changes graphs do not always follow and you will probably have to recreate them.

Spreadsheets are like a notepad: easy to get, easy to write information on, and can fit in your pocket or work bag. But on the other side, if you need to write a project planning or your quarter schedule, you will need to think about alternatives to handle complex data in an efficient way.

If you are a supply chain manager, do not be afraid of thinking about tools that are really made for you. It may lightly increase your budget, but you will save on time and money by having a tool which allows you to handle complex data, answering your needs in terms of supply and manufacturing planning and letting you know when an alert comes up.

If you are a manager or an engineer for a utility company, you may be interested in Veracity Connect, a cloud-based platform designed to help you manage critical assets such as transformers, switchgear and other heavy equipment. More than inventory software or a spreadsheet-based solution, Veracity Connect allows you to:

Efficiently Organize Information

• Store and access data from anywhere through the Internet
• Have a clear overview of your assets in no time
• Upload all equipment-related documents (product sheet, testing results, PCB counts, etc.)
• Ensure a proper audit trail

Ensure Reliability Through Collaboration

• Avoid outages caused by out of stock or hard to replace equipment
• Find replacements to obsolete items that are no longer manufactured
• Locate surplus in corporate wide inventories, send the “bat signal” to fellow utilities and industry partners to source needed critical spares.

Mitigate Risk

• Quickly locate critical spares by identifying potential sources
• Proactive approach to managing equipment failure

Offset Capital Expenditures

• Reduce inventory levels and carrying costs knowing your spares needs are available
• Liquid surplus with higher returns
• Get full logistics support to shorten the time to source equipment

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Don’t miss a chance to get in touch with us by calling us at 866-694-1252 or info@veracityamg.com.

Visit our website veracityamg.com and our social media platform:

Veracity Is Part of the CDMN’s Outbound Soft Landing Program

The Canadian Digital Media Network (CDMN), a federal Centre of Excellence in Commercialization and Research, is dedicated to establishing Canada as a world leader in digital media (ICT + mobile) by creating and enabling connections and collaboration between entrepreneurs, companies, research institutes, government and intermediary organizations across the country. CDMN helps bring more digital media solutions to market to create more companies, jobs and wealth in Canada.

With a worldwide network, CDMN guide startup companies target new markets.

Veracity Asset Management Group (www.veracityamg.com) will participate in the Canadian Digital Media Network’s Outbound Soft-Landing Fall 2014 Program to help forge the partnerships and connections it needs for its expansion across North America.

CDMN Press Release

“Outbound Soft Landing program announces fall cohort, with new support from TD

By Emmett O’Kane on Sep 26, 2014 / Categories: CDMN News, Featured, Soft Landing

Fifteen Canadian companies have been selected to participate in the Canadian Digital Media Network’s outbound Soft Landing program this fall, and they’ll have a new supporter in their corner.TD Bank Group, North America’s sixth largest bank by branches, has partnered with the CDMN to help small- to medium-sized enterprises pursue growth in international markets.“‎TD is very pleased to be supporting the Canadian Digital Media Network Outbound Soft Landing program, which provides funding to promising startups selected by the CDMN, in order to promote their growth opportunities abroad,” said Jeff Martin, SVP & CIO Digital Channels Technology Solutions, TD Bank Group.Companies selected will receive up to $4,000 towards travel costs and a free working space at partnered locations abroad for up to three months, to help them expand into new markets and develop relationships with key contacts in targeted economies.

The Fall 2014 companies are:

Plasticity Labs

Landing: U.S. (Las Vegas)

Plasticity is building the happiest workforces every day, through an integrated mobile and web app that changes how organizations measure, manage and stimulate positive workplace culture. Its mission is to improve the experience of life, and work, for millions of people and the organizations where they work. http://www.plasticitylabs.com/

Maerospace Corp.

Landing: India

Maerospace’s mission is to improve the world through the mastery of data. Working with some of the world’s most advanced companies and nations, Maerospace turns complex data into actionable information to make missions safer, borders more secure, environmental responses more effective and companies more profitable. http://www.maerospace.com/

Slimcut Media

Landing: U.S. (New York City)

Slimcut Media helps digital publishers increase their revenue while engaging their audiences. With offices in Toronto and Paris, their platform combines a reward program, targeted video advertising and a payment system to build a symbiotic relationship between publishers and their audiences. http://www.slimcutmedia.com/

blueRover

Landing: Australia

blueRover provides a unique and advanced technology platform that offers businesses employing machine-to-machine (M2M) applications access to infinite, data-driven intelligence about their assets. With blueRover, customers can monitor, track and react to real-time data about their assets and resources from anywhere around the globe. http://www.bluerover.ca/

Bonfire

Landing: U.S. (Orlando; Dallas; Charlotte)

Bonfire prides itself on making the easiest, simplest and friendliest way for purchasers to accept and evaluate supplier proposals, tenders, quotes as part of RFx (request for information, proposal or quotation), bid projects and more. The Waterloo-based company is already trusted with over $1 billion in procurement projects with much more to come. http://www.gobonfire.com/

I Think Security

Landing: Hong Kong

I Think Security Ltd. is an award-winning R&D security lab that provides secure solutions for data, cloud and mobile. Supported by sophisticated analytics and control, and leveraging existing local infrastructure, I Think Security Ltd. products are backed by a team of security professionals experienced in designing and implementing the highest in advanced security. Its technologies are used in data protection to prevent cyber attacks, corporate espionage and insider threats. http://www.ithinksecurity.com/

Analyze Re Inc.

Landing: London, CTA@UK

Analyze Re provides pricing and risk management software for the reinsurance industry. Their innovative SaaS platform employs high-performance computing and big data analysis to unlock a holistic view of risk, enabling reinsurers to make smarter decisions, minimize their risk and maximize their profits in real time. http://www.analyzere.com/

REfficient Inc.

Landing: Mexico

REfficient.com is a matchmaking site connecting “who has what” and “who is looking for what.” Its online marketplace allows companies to buy quality Telecom, A/V and IT equipment at significant discounts from sustainable sources. REfficient shows customers that they can drive financial results while doing something good for the environment. http://www.refficient.com/

ProjectSpeaker Inc.

Landing: London; Munich; Venice

ProjectSpeaker turns event planners into event heroes. Their platform is a curated event planner resource of the world’s leading speakers, speakers bureaus and event suppliers that allows planners to be more efficient and successful in finding the best speakers for their events. http://www.projectspeaker.com/

MetricAid Inc.

Landing: U.S. (Philadelphia)

MetricAid provides browser-based technology, analysis and consultation services to improve hospital emergency department efficiency. Its goal is to improve the satisfaction of the patient, the experience of the physician and the effectiveness of the emergency department. http://www.metricaid.com/

District M Inc.

Landing: U.S. (New York City; Florida)

District M is a digital technology company that specializes in unique campaign management. Its exclusive and proprietary advertising technology segments data and user profiles, giving clients the ability to reach diverse and specific audiences at the right time. http://www.districtm.ca/

Veracity Asset Management Group

Landing: U.S (Georgia; Florida; Alabama)

Veracity Asset Management Group works with organizations across various industries to develop policies and procedures to maximize asset utilization. Veracity provides software solutions and services that enable its customers to purchase, manage and dispose of surplus assets, allowing organizations to focus on core business issues. http://www.veracityamg.com/

LemonFree.com

Landing: U.S. (California)

LemonFree.com is a fresh and simple approach to shopping for cars online. Launched in 2007 by three Winnipeg entrepreneurs, LemonFree.com is an online automotive shopping and research marketplace with the mission to become the most trusted place to shop for a car. http://www.lemonfree.com/

INETCO Systems Ltd.

Landing: London, CTA@UK

INETCO Systems offers real-time transaction monitoring and analytics software that isolates IT performance issues affecting ATM, POS, Mobile Banking and Internet Banking transactions. In addition to software, INETCO offers consulting in APM, Business Transaction Management analytics reporting, and configuration services. http://www.inetco.com/

Energy Aware Technology Inc.

Landing: U.S. (Silicon Valley)

Founded in 2005, Energy Aware Technology is a leading developer of demand management solutions for utilities and aims to improve awareness of the ways we use energy, enabling us to reduce waste, save money and become more sustainable. By analyzing energy consumption data and displaying it in a concise, useful manner, people more fully understand their energy use and how to save money. This is how Energy Aware is creating smarter, more sustainable homes. http://www.energy-aware.com/

© 2014 CDMN. All rights reserved. Contact CDMN at info@cdmn.ca for permission to reproduce in any way.”

Don’t miss a chance to get in touch with us by calling us at 866-694-1252 or info@veracityamg.com. Find out how we can help your utility company source critical spares.

Visit our website veracityamg.com and our social media platform: