We recognised early that to compile high quality, repeatable and consistent data we needed to constrain the way the information was collected. We developed the EPES Asset Management System with limited customisable fields, and otherwise standardised data entry fields (e.g. drop-down lists & scales). This would be crucial to the quality the end-product.

We also understood that we needed to break down the communication barriers and liaise directly with on-the-ground maintenance staff who would be able to short circuit the information gathering processes. Given the significant practical experience of our technical staff, we easily build rapport with maintenance and trade staff gaining access to information and assistance in finding where assets were in the absence of as-built drawings and data. 

Finally, as consistency was fundamental, we ensured that teams working on the different sites attended regular briefings during the work with other teams to ensure alignment in the recording process, consistency in the evaluation of asset condition and assumptions used in estimating remaining service life.