Case Studies
Route Optimisation
Our transformative partnership with Morrison Data Services (MDS) delivered advanced route optimisation, revolutionising their meter-reading operations. With significant gains in efficiency, reduced carbon emissions, and a standout return on investment, this project showcases the potential of intelligent routing solutions. Here’s how it unfolded, with insights from both ISL and MDS teams.
About the Client
MDS is a leader in providing meter-reading services to energy and water providers, supporting major players like British Gas, EDF, Thames Water, and Southern Water. They manage two divisions—energy and water—and cover an extensive scope:
With nearly 30 years of experience, MDS is a cornerstone of the utilities sector. Heading operations is Darren Cousins, Head of DC North (Interim), whose 20-year career with MDS began as a meter reader. Darren’s deep understanding of operational challenges helped shape this project.
“I started meter reading for the flexibility, but the physical toll was immense. Reading upwards of 600 meters daily without route optimisation was tough. This experience has been key in guiding our current improvements.” – Darren Cousins
The Challenge
In 2018, MDS updated their systems, but inefficiencies persisted. Meter readers navigated unordered lists of addresses, resulting in wasted time and effort. The data provided by energy and water companies also lacked precision, further complicating operations.
To address these challenges, MDS aimed to:
The solution required an advanced routing system capable of handling walking and driving routes, speed variations, road rules, health and safety, and even ferry crossings.
The Solution
MDS discovered Routing-as-a-Service (RaaS) by RouteSmart Technologies through a paper by CEO Larry Levy. Integrated Skills, RouteSmart’s UK partner, collaborated with MDS to implement a bespoke solution tailored to their needs.
RaaS Features and Benefits:
RaaS dynamically optimises low-density routes, reducing unnecessary travel and enabling meter readers to work efficiently. The solution now supports 950+ readers, six days a week, with routes ready for handheld devices the next day.
Challenges Overcome
Despite the advanced system, scaling operations from 20 to 1,000 daily users posed challenges. However, these were resolved during rigorous testing and phased rollouts.
Example Challenges and Solutions:
To ensure the system worked as intended, Darren Cousins undertook a day of meter reading in December 2023. His experience highlighted final tweaks to enhance usability and efficiency.
Results
The RaaS implementation exceeded all expectations, delivering measurable benefits across multiple areas:
“The project has far exceeded our expectations. We’ve reduced fuel costs, increased productivity, and gained industry recognition. This is just the beginning.” – Darren Cousins
MDS’s success was further underscored by their nomination for Utility Partner of the Year at the Utility Week Awards 2024.
Looking Ahead
The RaaS implementation represents the first stage of a larger transformation. Next steps include:
Future innovations may include AI to predict optimal visiting times based on historical data, ensuring maximum efficiency.
Additionally, the upcoming Market-Wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS), a government mandate requiring energy suppliers to record consumption every 30 minutes by 2026, will reshape MDS operations. MDS and ISL are already preparing to adapt and expand their solutions to meet these new demands.
Conclusion
This partnership between MDS and ISL highlights the transformative power of advanced technology in operational efficiency. With tangible results and a clear roadmap for future growth, MDS is well-positioned to lead the utilities sector into the next era of innovation.
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