Category: SBS Blog

  • SDS-P&C 8.5 Product Release 

    SDS-P&C 8.5 Product Release 

    SBS is pleased to announce the immediate availability of Substation Design Suite Protection & Control (SDS-P&C) 8.5.

    This new release has 40 product improvements designed to streamline design workflows, data validation, ease of use and productivity. Read below to learn more about the top 5 enhancements. 

    With release 8.5, SBS continues our commitment to invest in the Substation Design Suite family of products. We appreciate the great input we have received from our user community, and the Substation Design Solution Industry Consortium (SDSIC). 

    1. SDS Data Editor: Import Wildcard Find/Replace List from Spreadsheet 

     Improves Workflows and Ease of Use 

    In addition to xml files, we now support Excel (.xlsx) file-based Search and Replace Lists for the SDS Data Editor. This new enhancement allows P&C users and/or admins to predefine a list of project- or drawing-wide search and replace items with the search items in column one and the replacement in column two. This will be a great benefit in continuing to streamline the standards-to-project workflow and making project data easier to work with! 

      1. New Commands – Drawing-wide Item Number Support  

      Improves Productivity – Efficiency  

      Several customers have asked for an automated way to adjust item numbers in a drawing-wide scope. We’ve added a suite of tools to assist with this, including assigning item numbers, resequencing item numbers, manually editing item numbers in a common dialog, marking numbers fixed/unfixed, blanking some or all item numbers and more! 

      1. New Command – Copy MOUNT, GROUPWITH, INST, LOC, and/or TAG to Window-Selected Symbol 

      Improves Productivity – Efficiency  

      To help designers and engineers work faster, we’ve added a new command (SDS_COPYTAGINSTLOC) that allows users to apply component identifying information “en masse” across picked symbols in the Active Drawing. 

      1. Signal Arrows without SIGCODE Value Are Now Audited  

      Improves Validation – Quality 

      To assist customers with QA/QC efforts, we’ve improved the SDS_AUDIT command to now check for Signal (Source/Destination) Arrows with blank SIGCODE attribute values. 

      1. New User Post Reporting Option – Filter Out Items Marked as Ref-Only 

       Improves Validation, Workflows and Ease of Use 

      In the past, quantities of parts could be duplicated if users weren’t careful when applying SDS Master/Ref-only tools. To increase ease of use and streamline the user experience further, we’ve now added an option for BOM and Component reports to filter out any symbols marked Ref-Only. 

      SBS is always seeking to improve its products!  
      Please reach out to [email protected] with questions or to learn more about the release. 

      Click here to download the newest version of SDS-P&C 8.5. 

      We thank you and appreciate your continued support. 

    1. SDS Industry Consortium 2023 Fall Virtual Event  

      SDS Industry Consortium 2023 Fall Virtual Event  

      The SDSIC Fall Conference is finally here with this year’s event being streamed virtually. Join us as we learn together across two days of presentations on November 1st and 2nd.  

      Annual conferences are an integral part of the Substation Design Solution Industry Consortium These conferences provide members the opportunity to learn from fellow substation designers, view Substation Design Suite™ product demos and announcements, and learn the latest from the vendor community.  
       
      Further details can be found on the official SDSIC conference page here- https://sdsconsortium.com/publicVirtual23  
       
      SBS and the SDS Industry Consortium  
      Since its inception in 2013, SBS has supported the SDSIC’s mission, leveraging its extensive knowledge in intelligent substation design to aid those investigating technologies that will improve their workflows. Although we do not manage the conference, we aim to contribute to the collaborative environment it nurtures year after year. The consortium is a robust network of member utilities and contract/design firms, all unified with a common goal – to enhance the design, engineering, field construction, operation, and maintenance of utility projects. 

      Our presence at the SDSIC conference underscores our commitment to staying at the forefront of substation design innovation. It also reflects our enduring partnership with the consortium, aimed at driving industry standards higher. 

      Join us at the conference to explore the latest in substation design solutions and to be part of a community dedicated to advancing the utility sector. Together, let’s create a future where technology and collaboration drive the next wave of utility infrastructure excellence. 

    2. SBS Receives Data Integration Award at Esri IMGIS Conference

      SBS Receives Data Integration Award at Esri IMGIS Conference

      SBS received Esri’s Data Integration award at the 2023 Esri Infrastructure Management and GIS (IMGIS) Conference, held in Palm Springs, California, October 10th-12th, 2023.  

      SBS is grateful to be distinguished as one of only 15 Esri partners to receive an award at this year’s IMGIS conference, an honor reserved for companies that have demonstrated innovative and creative ways to solve complex problems by using Esri’s ArcGIS software and those who have done exceptional work in advancing geographic information systems (GIS) technology. 

      This award underscores SBS’s excellent work to integrate ArcGIS technology with SBS CAD-based design solutions and the Esri Utility Network. SBS has further differentiated itself by pioneering configurable integrations with leading Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as SAP and Maximo, opting for configuration over custom coding. It may be this innovative approach that has led 15 of the top 20 largest utilities in the United States to choose SBS for their utility design solutions. 

      An important part of the software platform is the Utility DataHub™, a configurable set of interfaces that allows virtually seamless data exchange between ArcGIS, design, enterprise asset management, and operations. With the ability to map existing facilities, attributes and connectivity into CAD, designers then augment their designs with analytical values, material assignments and 3D representations prior to returning the data back to ArcGIS Professional and Esri Utility Network. Pre-design data collection or post-design As-built data interoperability is also supported in the Esri ecosystem. This level of data integration – of extending the power of Esri into the CAD world – allows for the type of innovative workflows the industry requires to meet the challenges of today. 

      Partner Award for Data Integration

      “Esri congratulates SBS on their 2023 IMGIS award in recognition of their innovative work leveraging ArcGIS software,” said Richard Cooke, Corporate Director and SVP Global Business Development at Esri. “We are proud to partner with them to foster the use of GIS technology in support of our mutual customers improving infrastructure.” 

      About Esri

      Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in hundreds of thousands of organizations globally, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial technology and analytics, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions that leverage a geographic approach to solving some of the world’s most complex problems by placing them in the crucial context of location. Visit us at esri.com.

      About SBS

      SBS is a global leader in intelligent software and spatial data integration solutions for major utilities and infrastructure companies across North America, Europe, and Australia. Our specialized software suite is tailored to support the engineering and design of vital network infrastructure assets, enabling the creation of practical models that enhance workflow management, promote collaboration, and standardize design practices. With a client base comprising hundreds of enterprise partners, SBS is headquartered in Littleton, Colorado, USA.

      SBS Team at Esri IMGIS Conference

      Visit Us: www.spatialbiz.com

      Contact Us: [email protected]

    3. SBS Welcomes Colby Manwaring

      SBS Welcomes Colby Manwaring

      New Strategic Advisor Joins SBS Team

      “Colby will be an invaluable resource to support SBS’s exciting growth trajectory.”

      – Dennis Beck, Chief Executive Officer

      Colby Manwaring Press Release 

      LITTLETON, Colo., October 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Spatial Business Systems LLC (“SBS” or the “Company”), a leading provider of intelligent design software to utilities and other critical network infrastructure providers, announced today that Colby Manwaring has been appointed as a Strategic Advisor. 

      Dennis Beck, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of SBS, commented, “We are looking forward to working with Colby to drive growth in the coming years. His technical expertise and industry experience will be valuable in delivering excellent service to our customers. Colby will be an invaluable resource to support SBS’s exciting growth trajectory.” 

      “I am pleased to join the team at SBS and look forward to contributing to the Company’s growth. I am eager to work closely with the exceptional team at SBS to continue its track record of innovation and growth. SBS is well positioned to further enhance its market position and deliver compelling value to its Utility and engineering customers,” said Mr. Manwaring. 

      Mr. Manwaring brings extensive experience from his career in water and environmental software, notably as the former CEO of Innovyze, a multinational infrastructure analytics software company acquired by Autodesk in 2021. His leadership at Innovyze led to significant global expansion and established the company as a leader in smart water analytics software solutions. His strategic vision and execution have been instrumental in driving organic and inorganic growth, fostering strategic alliances, and achieving commercial success in his previous roles. 

       Mr. Manwaring holds a BS and MS in Civil Engineering from Brigham Young University. 

      ABOUT SPATIAL BUSINESS SYSTEMS LLC 

      SBS is a leading provider of intelligent design software and spatial data integration solutions to many of the world’s largest utilities and infrastructure firms across North America, Europe and Australia. The Company’s suite of vertical-focused software supports the engineering and design of critical network infrastructure assets, creating real-world models that are used to manage workflows, facilitate collaboration and standardize design rules. SBS provides its software solutions to over 200 enterprise customers and is headquartered in Littleton, Colorado. 

      Media Contact: Daniel Yunger Kekst CNC
      212‐521‐4800

    4. The PUG 2023 Recordings Are Now Available

      The PUG 2023 Recordings Are Now Available

      The Peer Utility Group (PUG) celebrated a decade of collaboration at this year’s 2023 conference. We thank each of our presenters for sharing their experiences and expertise.

      Sessions Available on Demand

      We were fortunate this year to hear from a dozen different companies across both distribution and substation tracks. Presenters shared personal accomplishments, struggles, and insights into individual implementations. Each session was able to resonate to the diverse group of utilities and partners in attendance and we are grateful for all those who were able to take full advantage of the live open sessions.

      If you missed this year’s conference or would simply like to review the recorded presentations, please visit the SBS YouTube Channel.


      Thank You | PUG 2023
      No PUG conference is possible without numerous partners and utilities that offer their feedback and expertise to benefit the group. We are grateful to all the speakers for this year and hope to continue to deliver value to those in attendance.

      Why Attend in Person? | PUG 2024
      Of course the livestreamed presentations are only half the experience of PUG. Non-recorded open sessions were provided for utilities to get together and ask questions to each other and SBS experts. Non-recorded Q&A segments gave a chance for further collaboration between utilities. Social events like a golf tournament, mixers, and a night out at TopGolf were also a favorite of this year. If you haven’t yet attended a PUG conference in person, planning for PUG 2024 is already underway, be sure to keep your eyes out in the future for further details.

      If you have any questions feel free to reach out at [email protected]

    5. Meet With Us At the 2023 Esri Infrastructure Management & GIS Conference

      Meet With Us At the 2023 Esri Infrastructure Management & GIS Conference

      SBS will be showcasing our products and answering your questions at Booth #333. Come learn how our intelligent design solutions can add tremendous value to your projects.


      The Esri Infrastructure Management and GIS Conference (IMGIS) is just around the corner. SBS is proud to be a Gold sponsor to this event and would love to meet you at booth #333. Join us October 10–12, 2023 | Palm Springs, California. To learn more about IMGIS click here.

      CEO of SBS, Dennis Beck, will also be speaking during this year’s partner presentation session. Visit the Sierra/Ventura session room at 2:15pm – 2:45pm on October 10th to learn about GIS, CAD and BIM for Utilities and Communications.

    6. A Decade of Collaboration: The 2023 Peer Utility Group Conference 

      A Decade of Collaboration: The 2023 Peer Utility Group Conference 

      Learn and share information with your peers and SBS regarding our Intelligent Design Solutions for Distribution and Substations 

      The Peer Utility Group is a unique gathering of utility and engineering design professionals to exchange experiences and ideas on the design, integration and improvement of utility design and construction workflows. For 10 years the PUG has continued to grow as attendees openly share experiences and resolve common industry problems in a non-commercial environment. Attendees also get the opportunity to discuss product directions with the SBS development and delivery teams. 

      Conference Details 

      As we announce our 10th Annual Peer Utility Group Conference, we’re both excited and honored to gather in person to celebrate this milestone. This year’s conference will be held at the stunning Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club in Denver, Colorado, from August 28th to 31st, 2023.  

      Our annual golf tournament will be held Monday morning for those that are interested, with full conference activities kicking off Tuesday. We are pleased to introduce our first Substation track in addition to the Distribution track. The substation track will be by invitation only, focused on physical substation design topics. Please contact SBS if you are interested in participating as seating is limited.   

      This event will provide a wealth of knowledge, insights and networking opportunities. Our program includes a wide range of conference sessions and evening events spanning throughout the week. Moreover, SBS experts will be available for open table discussions on Thursday afternoon.

      Please note that our initial year’s Virtual Livestream will only cover the Distribution track. Details are still underway, be sure to visit www.spatialbiz.com/peer-utility-group/ to stay up to date on the latest information.  

      Have something you would like to present at this years conference? Speakers get their tickets at no additional cost! If you feel like you would be a good fit see the FAQ section below for more info.  

      Register Here

      Here is what others had to say about last year’s PUG: 


      “Well planned, excellent logistics and extremely relevant content. A memorable time.”  

      “…this is a very well established conference. The SBS Team was great. Very knowledgeable, very funny and very helpful. I made some great contacts while at the conference and hope to return again to see how their solution is progressing.” 

      “ Attention to detail from the venue right down to cadence and information shared was impeccable.” 

      Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

      Q: How can I join PUG? 

      A: Simply click the “JOIN NOW” button on our website. 

      Q: What are the benefits of joining PUG? 

      A: PUG membership gives you access to non-commercial collaborations, direct interaction with industry experts, webinars, user-led presentations, free training and more.  

      Q: What kinds of topics are discussed in the PUG? 

      A: Since AUD is a cross-discipline design tool, information is often shared on Electric, Gas, Water and Communications networks. We primarily implement within your end-to-end workflows, so discussions related to Analysis, EAM and GIS systems are also prevalent. 

      Q: What is the difference from the Peer Utility Group and the 2023 PUG conference?  

      A: The Peer Utility Group (PUG) is an online group meant for discussion and sharing. The 2023 PUG conference is an annual event held by SBS to network and listen to industry speakers on a variety of distribution network design topics.  

      Q: When and where is the 2023 PUG Conference? 

      A: The conference is from August 28 – 31, 2023, at the Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club, 23155 E Heritage Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80016.  

      Q: Can I register to present at the 2023 PUG? 

      A: Yes! We are currently looking for more speakers. If you would like to present on helpful advances in your organization then please contact [email protected] as soon as possible.  

      Q: What if I can’t attend the 2023 PUG in person? 

      A: We will provide a live-stream link for those unable to attend in person, covering the Distribution track. 

      Q: How can I stay updated about the PUG Conference 2023? 

      A: Visit our PUG Conference Page regularly for updates on available sessions and activities. For any queries, reach us at [email protected]  

      Q: Are there past PUG sessions available to watch?  
      A: While some sessions are reserved for PUG members only, there are sessions available. Visit our YouTube playlist here to see past sessions.  

    7. Join SBS at Esri User Conference 2023  

      Join SBS at Esri User Conference 2023  

      SBS will be highlighting our intelligent design solutions at Booth #1012. 

      Head over to booth #1012 to learn how SBS intelligent design solutions leverage the power of ArcGIS Utility Network and the flexibility of AutoCAD to design utility and telecommunications infrastructure.   

      SBS solutions create the digital twins used to build and manage today’s critical infrastructure, all integrated with the enterprise.  Please stop by to learn more.    
       
      See below for further information and registration details.  

      July 10-14, 2023 
      San Diego Convention Center | San Diego, California 
       
      https://www.esri.com/en-us/about/events/uc/registration  

    8. Connect with Us at Utility Week Live 2023 

      Connect with Us at Utility Week Live 2023 

      SBS will be attending Utility Week Live in Birmingham on May 16-17. Learn from peers and connect with us at Stand B14.   

      We are excited to be attending UWL 2023 to answer your questions and discuss how SBS products and intelligent design solutions are continuing to improve the globe’s critical network infrastructure.  SBS will be at the Locana booth, Stand B14.   
       
      Utility Week Live 2023 is the UK’s only pan-utility exhibition that brings together over 3,000 professionals from the energy, water, and gas sectors. Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham on May 16-17, this event offers an extensive FREE-to-attend content program, featuring 150+ industry-leading speakers addressing eight major challenge themes. Attendees will have access to 200+ market-leading exhibitors and partners, highlighting the latest innovative products and solutions. Utility Week Live 2023 is a must-attend event for utility professionals looking to network, discover innovation, and gain practical advice to address critical challenges. 

      Location:  
      NEC- Birmingham, UK | Hall 12 

      To learn even more and register for this event please visit this link.  

    9. SBS Sponsors 2023 Substation Design Solution Industry Consortium 

      SBS Sponsors 2023 Substation Design Solution Industry Consortium 

      Nashville Conference Delivers a Sell-Out Event 

      SBS joined in with over 300 substation industry design professionals to support the 10th anniversary SDSIC conference in Nashville, TN on April 24th through 27th.  The conference was an outstanding success, with a record turnout of attendees.  The SDSIC has steadily grown to over 1800 members since it was founded 10 years ago. 

      Presenting from SBS included: 

      • Dennis Beck, CEO, with an industry update. 
      • Joey Baker, Director of Substation Solutions, with a company update and welcome. 
      • Randy Brunette, Technical Consultant, on substation protection and control and Autodesk Vault data storage topics. 
      • Arman Birang, Technical Consultant, on the use of augmented reality to support substation design and construction workflows. 
      • Steve Kauffman, Technical Consultant, presented topics on the latest developments in substation physical design and content generation.   
      • Trevor Scullion, Director of Emerging Technologies, shared a number of exciting developments in the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence in substation design.   
      • David Wilbur, Product Development, provided a technical overview of the recent work that has been done on the SBS Substation Design Suite™ Physical for AutoCAD product.   

      Of special note, Trevor Scullion received the SDSIC Paragon Award for his longstanding contributions to the SDSIC.   

      Also presenting were several industry leaders including American Electric Power, Ameren, Burns & McDonnell, Black & Veatch, Duke Energy, LG&E-KU, Mesa Associates, POWER Engineers, PPL Electric and Southern Company.  For those that are interested in joining the SDSIC please feel free to contact SBS at i[email protected], or the consortium directly at www.sdsconsortium.com.