A Word from The Boss

“Enhance Security”

Welcome to Summer’s GeoSolutions News

In this edition, we profile a couple of client stories, detail how to best manage user management change requests, present some more X-InFocus tech tips, provide some insight in our next major software release, update of our teams’ activities in connecting people with information, and offer an exciting 2024 giveaway.

We welcome Paulina Lee, Senior GIS Specialist, to our Solutions team in Brisbane.

2023 has been a busy year, 37 solutions projects delivered, the release of version 7 of the X-Info suite, migration of all our clients to our new AWS Cloud Platform, culminating with the successful rollout of Before You Dig Australia National Referral Service Format changes in our X-Info Assurance suite completed on 23 November, the end is in sight. It has been such a pleasure to catch up with so many clients personally, whether it was in meetings, an event, sharing a bite to eat or a coffee across the country over the last few weeks. It is such a privileged to be able to travel and am reminded how lucky we are to live in this part of the world.

To service the dynamic energy and infrastructure sectors at such a significant time, as we all look to navigate the hugely complex and challenging energy transition that is well and truly underway (where hiring and retaining the resources to deliver on our commitments while keeping up to date with the risks of cyber incidents, business disruption, changes in legislation and regulation) is accelerating our digital Transformation Stages.

2024 see us start to align the Next Generation of X-Info Suite with our new AWS Platform, will see us identify capability gaps and cross organisational dependencies. Doing so will help us create strategies for improving our cloud platform operations, ensure stakeholder alignment, and facilitate relevant organisational change management activities. It is certainly exciting to be heading into the new year.

In closing, I would like to acknowledge and welcome our most recent new clients, Ampol and Energy Queensland, thank the significant number who have renewed and congratulate one of our long-term valued clients Australian Gas Infrastructure Group’s Dampier Bunbury Pipeline team on the successful migration and modernisation of their X-Info Assurance suite automated enquiry response and third party works solution to our hosted AWS platform.

On behalf of the Mipela team thank you for your trust and support throughout 2023. Wherever you might be with friends and family over the Christmas period, we send our best wishes for a rewarding and successful New Year which we look forward too with excitement and confidence. Travel safe!

Hayden McDonald
Founder and Managing Director

Mipela are Proud to Protect Qeno’s Botany Assets using the Power of X-Info Assurance suite

Qenos is the powerhouse shaping Australians’ everyday experiences by transforming low-value gases into high-quality polyethylene and resins.

As the exclusive Australian leader in this field, they maximise the potential of our natural resources. A crucial ally to Australian manufacturers, Qenos stands out with unmatched technical support, stellar customer service, and a nationwide distribution network ensuring swift polyethylene delivery via a dedicated container fleet. Their premium product range, from PE100 for pressure pipes to Alkatuff for robust environments, guarantees top-tier quality.

With an ongoing commitment to improvement, Qenos have automated their asset protection using X-Info Assurance suite to free up important resources and guarantee almost immediate responses to all BYD enquiries.

“It’s reassuring to know that Mipela are providing the assurance we require with very quick BYD enquiry response times and security practices fit for critical infrastructure,” said Mark Walker, Qenos Offsite Storage & Pipelines Manager.

Beyond elevating daily life with safer and cleaner solutions, Qenos is a premier manufacturer, importer, distributor, and exporter of specialty polymers through their in-demand eXsource specialty distribution arm.

Update on our process improvement Kamapim project

As we bid farewell to 2023, it’s with a sense of accomplishment and excitement that we reflect on the journey of the past 12 months at Mipela. In this time, we’ve invested significantly in expanding the knowledge base of our team, and it’s so good to observe the blossoming of key themes that have fuelled our growth and success.

One of the focuses every year has been the evolution of our product roadmap. The dynamic nature of our product development has been a testament to our dedication to providing solutions that make a real impact. Spoiler alert – you will need to wait to find out what we have planned next.

Furthermore, our dedication to continuous improvement has been a guiding principle in shaping how we develop our products and nurture our people. The journey of growth extends beyond software enhancements; it encompasses the development of our team members and their skills. The strides we’ve made in this area are evident in the achievements of each team member.

Of course, for my little article here, we can’t overlook the critical aspect of cybersecurity. In 2023, our steadfast commitment to fortifying our digital defences has been unwavering. It’s an integral part of our ethos as we strive to ensure the safety and integrity of the solutions we provide to our clients.

As we approach the close of a BIG year, it’s impossible not to acknowledge the collective growth of our team. We’ve not only grown professionally but have also deepened our understanding of one another. This camaraderie has been pivotal in navigating personal challenges, professional challenges, and the unique demands of our industry.

Looking ahead, the forecast for 2024 is very busy, with a touch of crazy.  The momentum we’ve built shows no signs of slowing down, and I am sure after a little rest we will return full of beans and ready for more.

In the spirit of the season, I hope you get to gather with your loved ones to celebrate. To all the dedicated members of the Mipela team including our Managing Director, colleague, and friend Hayden McDonald, thank you for your hard work, commitment, and the unique contributions you bring to the table. To our valued clients, it’s your trust and partnership that propel us forward, and for that, we are truly grateful.

As the festive season approaches, may it bring you moments of calm amidst the hustle, laughter that warms the heart, and an abundance of love that leaves you blushing.

Jaci

x-infocus

X-Info Assurance suite Insights: Enhancing your Enquiry Experience

Q1: What level of detail can I expect in the responses generated by X-Info Assurance suite?

A1: X-Info Assurance suite’s automated enquiry response system goes above and beyond, delivering comprehensive responses tailored to your inquiries. The generated responses not only include all the information provided in the enquiry but also feature disclaimer details, intricate area maps submitted by the enquirer, and closeup strip maps highlighting assets and key features in the vicinity. Additionally, the system can provide specific instructions based on the asset, asset type, and activity type. As part of our commitment to excellence, we can attach supplementary documentation, such as guidelines for activities near significant trees, to the response email.

Q2: Can Mipela assist in modernising my spatial asset data?

A2: X-Info Assurance Suite clients have access to Mipela’s dedicated team of GIS experts. Whether you need custom symbology, background imagery, or assistance with merging and splitting layers, our team is here to ensure that your spatial asset data is not just up to date, but optimised for maximum utility.

Q3: What if a BYDA enquiry encounters processing issues?

A3: Occasionally, processing issues may arise, often due to temporary unavailability of remote GIS data or network connectivity issues. X-Info Assurance suite is equipped with proactive monitoring tools that continuously assess all enquiries, ensuring maximum uptime and data security. In the event of a processing hiccup, X-Info Assurance suite will persistently process pending requests until the necessary data becomes available, safeguarding your assets throughout the entire process.

For further information or assistance with X-Info Assurance suite, feel free to reach out to the Mipela Support team. We’re here to enhance your X-Info Assurance Suite experience.

Product Update

Exciting News: X-Info Connect version 8 – Elevating Solutions and Experiences

We’re thrilled to share a sneak peek into the future as we embark on the development journey of X-Info Connect 8!

Our aim is to empower clients with seamless workflows, facilitating connections and the exchange of information. Anticipated for release in late 2024, this new version promises to be a game changer, offering innovative solutions to meet your evolving needs.

The development of X-Info Connect 8 is already in full swing, with our dedicated Products Team gearing up for an intense year ahead. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect from this upcoming release:

Enhanced Performance: X-Info Connect 8 is designed to deliver superior performance, ensuring a smoother and more efficient user experience

Optimised Data Storage: We’re committed to maximising the efficiency of data storage, making it more streamlined and effective

Dynamic Integration: Enjoy a new level of flexibility with dynamic integration capabilities that adapt to your evolving requirements

Flexible Database and Process Design: X-Info Connect 8 will offer enhanced flexibility in both database and process design, providing you with solutions tailored to your specific needs

Advanced Security: Security is paramount! X-Info Connect 8 will feature enhanced measures to safeguard your data, ensuring a secure and worry free experience.

These improvements will be packaged in a modern application that leverages current technology trends. This represents a significant transformation in the architecture and will also allow for a seamless migration.

Stay tuned for more updates as we progress through the development stages of X-Info Connect 8. We are committed to delivering a product that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Mousemats

The world famous, limited edition, Mipela mousemat calendar for 2024 is now available. Contact us if you would like some sent to you.

Staff Updates

Staff profile – Alek Hillier, Support Team Leader

Over the past seven years, Alek has moved through the ranks of Mipela, starting as a Support Specialist then progressing to Senior Support Specialist before transitioning to the Solutions Team as a Senior Solutions Specialist. Her knowledge bank, expertise and commitment to supporting our clients is outstanding and fared her well earlier this year, as she transitioned back into the Support Team within her new role of Team Leader.  

Most of you have likely corresponded with Alek over the years, but we found out some of the things you may not know…  

1. A TV show you recommend to everyone? 

A show I’ve recently finished watching has been The 100 and loved every episode of it! Should be on everyone’s watch list.  

2. Something you’ve recently learned about yourself? 

That I love painting, although not very good at it. 

3. Your favourite book from childhood? 

I wasn’t much of a reader in my childhood, but I remember a couple books being my favourite. Anything Julia Donaldson (which my daughter loves as well!) but also Deadly! By Paul Jennings and Morris Gleitzman, a weird, wonderful and hilarious book. 

4. One thing we would never guess about you? 

I LOVE to ride dirt bikes. I was lucky enough to have a trail out the back of our childhood home and would go riding most weekends. 

5. If you could get anything for Christmas this year, what would it be? 

A kid free spa day/s/week! sounds like heaven. 

Ensuring Smoother User Management: Your Collaboration can Expedite the Process

At Mipela, we understand the importance of a swift and efficient user management process. Whether you’re requesting to add a new user, remove a user, or alter someone’s permission level, your needs are our top priority. However, we often encounter challenges in identifying the requestor and verifying their authority to make these changes.

The Challenge of Identifying Requestors

Our Support team receives a multitude of user management requests on a daily basis. However, we don’t always have the complete information required to process these requests promptly. One significant issue we face is not knowing who you are or whether you have the necessary authority to make the request.

Securing Authorisation Delays

Obtaining the required authorisation can sometimes be a time consuming process. In certain cases, we may not receive a response from the authorised person within your organisation on the same day, causing delays in executing your requests. We recognise that this can be frustrating, and we are committed to improving this aspect of our service.

How You Can Assist Us

We believe that your collaboration can play a vital role in expediting the user management process. To ensure a seamless and efficient experience, we kindly request that you take the following steps when emailing our Support team for user changes:

CC Your Manager: When sending an email to our Support team for user changes, please make sure to cc your immediate manager. This will allow them to confirm your request and expedite the authorisation process, eg.

Subject: User Access Request for Lands Management Site

Hi Support

Can you please provide access for K Thompson to our Lands Management site as a Field User? I have cc’d in my manager, H McDonald, who will reply to this email to confirm my request.

Thanks

Me

At Mipela, every request is genuinely important to us, and we want to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for you. Regardless of which team member your request is assigned to, having a record of the request being authorised by your manager is vital. The sooner we receive this authorisation, the quicker we can act on your request, ensuring minimal delays and a seamless process.

Your cooperation will greatly enhance our ability to meet your user management needs promptly and efficiently. We appreciate your continued support.

If you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our Support team.

SA Power Networks – Committed to Ensuring Security

In the fast-paced realm of data privacy and online security, today’s conversations might seem obsolete by next week. Trends evolve swiftly, and the demands on major service providers are continuously scrutinised by both regulatory bodies and consumers alike.

Long time Mipela client, SA Power Network takes a proactive stance in addressing risks, employing dynamic layers of security and swiftly implementing initiatives to stay ahead of the curve.

In the constantly evolving landscape of security, where potential breaches and client privacy concerns arise weekly, it’s comforting seeing a client such as SA Power Network committed to developing an increasingly sophisticated approach to these critical areas.

‘Tis the Season

As the festive season approaches, we want to ensure you are well informed about our Christmas trading hours. Our team has been working tirelessly throughout the year, and it’s time for them to enjoy a well deserved break. However, rest assured that we’ll have a dedicated skeleton staff available to assist you should you need any support.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this holiday period.