Disruptive technologies are changing customer and employee expectations

How is technology impacting your company?

While utility companies have always focused on ensuring safe, reliable and economic power delivery, the industry is facing a transformation with the focus on grid modernization, new regulatory requirements, and the adoption of mobile devices.

85% of respondents said protecting customer and employee data is important, but fewer understand what that data entails and where it is stored.

As a result of these changes, new technology challenges are arising, including the management of increasing volumes of near real-time data, the impact of social media, cyber security and a call center that answers questions above and beyond billing inquiries. In addition, the new technologies are requiring employees to expand their skill sets and capabilities.

66% of survey participants see smart grids and smart metering as an important or very important opportunity to get close to their customers.

To drive this industry change, utility companies must consider an approach and strategy that positions their organization for growth. Power and utility companies are embarking on this journey by looking for ways to reduce capital costs and operating expenses for technology. They must also consider evaluating business intelligence systems and processes. The technology being deployed today will ultimately succeed, too, when there is substantial customer choice, involvement, trust and adoption.

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