References

Now let's look at the key concepts when doing predesign. 

The goal with good predesign is to speed up data collection. Poorly drawn in maps with areas of confusion not only slow field teams down but also lead to missed data and the need to return to the field to recollect.

References are the main items that need to be added to maps ahead of data collection (besides the actual route). References are spans that are not part of the aerial design of the route, but are needed to provide data for make ready and/or pole loading analysis. There are three types of references we use:

• Pole Added for Loading is when the pole that is included in our design is the load bearing end of a pole-to-pole guy. In this case, adjacent poles will affect the stress on our pole and we will need to collect a midspan photo and data at the adjacent pole. 

• Com References are when any communication cables are in the span (regardless of whether it's communication only or communication and power). A midspan height photo should be collected but most times, pole data at the adjacent pole is not needed. 

• Power References are when it is power only. Since it is power only, many times this will affect make ready in the office and allow field crews to take different photos of the span (such as hallways only).

Since the goal with predesign is to speed up field crews, having these nodes and connection drawn in ahead of time will allow teams to know which photos are required, take them, and keep moving, without switching field tools or adding confusion. 

Tools for each type of reference should appear in the Aerial Design toolset.  Scroll through the images below to see each type of reference.