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armasuisse Immobilien Transforms Geoinformation Management with VertiGIS
armasuisse Immobilien, the real estate competence center of the Swiss Federal Department of Defense, Civil Protection, and Sport (DDPS), is responsible for managing 24,000 hectares of land, 6,000 buildings and facilities, over 270 military sites and their utility networks. Managing these assets requires precise and continually updated geoinformation.
The Challenge
Previously, the processes for collecting and updating geoinformation were fragmented and relied heavily on external stakeholders. Data updates occurred on an annual basis, often resulting in outdated information. These inefficiencies negatively affected internal operations.
To improve the speed and accuracy of geoinformation availability, armasuisse Immobilien recognized the need for a complete overhaul. This transformation called for optimized internal structures and processes, centralized data management, and the implementation of a modern geoinformation management system. The existing WebGIS solution, could no longer meet their growing needs due to outdated technology, limited functionality, and lack of flexibility.
The WEGA project laid the foundation for this upgrade. This initiative introduced a state-of-the-art geoinformation (GIS) platform, blending technical advancements with organizational improvements. armasuisse Immobilien turned to VertiGIS, an internationally recognized partner in geoinformation systems, to guide this transformation successfully.
The Solution
VertiGIS, in collaboration with armasuisse Immobilien, is developing a robust solution based on Esri’s powerful ArcGIS Enterprise and Utility Network technology. The upgraded ImmoGIS system leverages VertiGIS Networks and VertiGIS Studio, and incorporates various tailored applications and technologies, such as:
- ImmoGIS Editor: An easy-to-use platform for editing and maintaining network infrastructure.
- ImmoGIS Explorer: A powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing network infrastructure.
- ImmoGIS Submitter: A tailored application enabling external surveyors to securely and efficiently capture utility data.
- Domain Packages: Modular, industry-specific solutions for water, gas, electricity, wastewater, district heating, and communication, all fully compliant with Swiss standards and regulations (e.g., SIA, VSA, INTERLIS).
The system also includes optimized processes to migrate existing geodata and integrate external systems, including SAP and document management tools. Ensuring reliable operations, IT infrastructure is hosted in collaboration with the Federal Office of Information Technology and Telecommunications (BIT), meeting strict security requirements to safeguard data.
The WEGA project is being implemented in several phases, each focusing on different media for supply and disposal lines. By following an agile methodology based on HERMES 2022, the project ensures a gradual and effective rollout. The system is scheduled to go live in early 2026.
VertiGIS Netzworks – the central solution for the planning, construction, operation and maintenance of supply networks.
The Result
The improved ImmoGIS provides armasuisse Immobilien with a host of benefits, including:
- Real-Time Geoinformation: Internal departments, such as construction and facility management, gain access to accurate, up-to-date network data for better decision-making.
- Increased Efficiency: Streamlined processes save significant time during planning and execution of construction projects and property maintenance.
- Centralized Data Management: Data is now consolidated within an internalized system, moving away from the previous fragmented, externally managed setup.
- Secure, Role-Specific Access: Advanced security protocols ensure only authorized personnel can access sensitive information.
- Improved User Experience: Customized web-based solutions make data maintenance and quality assurance easier for GIS operators and external surveyors.
- Flexibility and Scalability: Customized adaptations of VertiGIS solutions allow for workflows tailored to armasuisse Immobilien’s needs.
With the support of VertiGIS as a local partner, armasuisse Immobilien benefits from a sustainable solution and ongoing support to ensure a smooth implementation and operation of the new system.
Currently in its implementation phase, the WEGA project is being rolled out in multiple phases. Post-implementation, armasuisse Immobilien plans to continue its partnership with VertiGIS to explore additional innovative geo-IT initiatives. The continuous development of the system will ensure that armasuisse Immobilien can leverage modern GIS solutions in the long term, providing new growth opportunities, particularly in facility management.
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