Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutRESPONSE - RFP - P916 GIS RELATED APPLICATION DEVELOPMENTE 0 P.� Task 4 — Findings Meeting. At the findings meeting, we will resent Katy Carpenter and other participants, as necessary, with our recommendation for an updated process and supporting technology solution. During this meeting, comments and changes will be made to the recommended solutions based on the City's feedback. Recommended Solutions. We will develop a "to be" solution and recommendation that includes the identification and prioritization of new automated tools and processes that are contained within software modules of the Carpool software application. Task 5 — Develop Final Requirements and Recommendations Report. PBS&J will develop a final requirements and recommendations report describing the recommended modifications to the process and the application modules that will be developed in support of the newly recommended carpool program including both processes and supporting software. This documentation will include the needs and requirements for solving problems that will be addressed and determine procedures for the ensuing application development. We will present the report to the City so that any final or additional changes to the requirements can be made before any application development work. The fact that we will not start development work until all requirements are finalized and recommendations are approved, the City is an essential part of saving time and _.. money on the project. This elim_ inates redundarCcy in process implementation steeps and the need to reprogram software, which ultimately, brings value t� the Ph:»e _' — Appiication Development As soon as the City has approved all recommended processes and software technology solutions, we will begin developing the software application. We will develop a program -user interface that updates the integrated database and mapping components which is used to produce a finalized report for the rider. The report functions and features will be described in a user's guide or "help sheet" that will also be developed. Below is a graphic that shows this project's proposed modules that can be further broken down to include all the details of development that will be completed in each task or subtask. The descriptions of each task are described below. Task 1 — Develop Software Graphical User Interface (GUI) Program (GUI MODULE). During Task 1, we will develop software that includes a GUI that is easy to use, flexible, and that meets the needs and requirements identified in,Phase_1. The software will be built in modules a— ccording to the prioritization agreed upon in Phase 1. We will build the software one module at a time and will test each piece as we go. This process allows us to test, identify, and resolve any problems with the program before moving on. Katy Carpenter and/or other stakeholders are invited to test each modular. Should any issues arise, our proposed schedule allots time for retesting software. This process makes it vg-ry easy for you to monitor our proeress. The GUI will be easy to understand and use by incorporating drop -down menus with pick lists of choices for field entries with domains. Random Carpooler Carpool Regular Graphical School Carpooler 10 User Carpooler Interface/ l Module ll / S atial vey 0Module Mapping Database Module of Printing -*in- Riders Reporting Viewing Query Destination Query Work Hours Query Names Carpool Map Application 7 Proposal Number P916 PW November 2003 .a' V City of Pnrt Collins Task 2 — Develop Database (DATABASE MODULE). The current carpool system maintains all information for potential carpool riders in two different database tables. Based on the results of Phase 1, we could potentially. consolidate this information into one database that follows the approved design. This consolidation co— TcT� potentially reduce unnecessary redundancy in data entry and maintenance. Task 3 — Develop Mapping Components (MAPPING MODULE). During Task 3, we will develop the mapping components defined in the requirements during Phase 1. Together, these mapping components make up tW- mapping module. The automated mapping tools could potentially allow input from users including user classification information such as individual carpooler, school carpooler, or from a campaign promotion for a Phase 1, we will develop a method to customize maps dependent on specific company. Based on the results o user inputs. These inputs might include destination, origin, time, etc. The mapping module will also contain the necessary address matching tools that will identify carpoolers who are realistically going to be potential matches. The mapping display will be based on the interactive user inputs and automatically scale according to those inputs. A printing and reporting feature will be developed so that the user can print a map or a report that contains the relevant contact information from potential matches. We will develop functionality that will create a list of matches for those carpoolers who are outside the map area. Task 4 - Integrate and Test GUI Software, Databases, and Mapping Components. Once Phase 2, Task 1s and 2 are complete, the GUI software, database, and mapping components will be integrated into_or] application. This integration will merge the existing geocoding services, which are a Regional street centerline database, and an address�-yomt location -based dataset for the City, into one service. We will develop an integrated modular software so that geocoding operations performed against the two existing geocoding services from the single GUI will be seamless and transparent to the user. During Task 4 we will assign a team of all software and process testers that will test all of the.deyeloped components of the carpooling - _ system. modules, tools, and - _ _ Phase , — Impiemerilation of the S C'u Carpool Piu�:,l:-tn! After completing Phase 2, we will begin Phase 3 by installing and testi_ng,the application on the City's servers. This will include the acceptance testing processes required for full implementation of the software system. During Phase 2, we will have tested the application, but it is imperative that the City's stakeholders also test the application once it is installed. Task 1 — Application Deployment. During Task 1, we will iryUalLall software modules, components, and tools on the City's servers. We will need temporary access to your servers for this task to be completed. Task 2 — User Training and Acceptance Testing. Although stakeholders will be involved in developing all modules, components, and tools, it is still_necessary.io conduct a training -session for the stakeholders. Once the application is installed and a training session is completed, the acceptance testin griod will begin. This will be conducted for two w at which time PBS&J agrees to support and make changes to the system as needed. At the end of the two -week period, a final acceptance testing form will need to be completed by Katy Carpenter. Carpool Map Application g Proposal Number P916 November 2003 City of Fort Cullins Pricing 4r4o Person Hourly Rate $150.001 $140.61 $72.60 $69.241 $108.18 $72.12 Hours 61 80 13 38 54 64 255 Costs $900.00 $11,748.80 $ 43.80 $3,631.12 $6,841.72 $5,615.68 $29,681.12 Expenses $0.00 $500.00 $0.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $3,500.05 Task 1 - Kick-off Meeting 0 8 0 2 2 8 20 Task 2 - Gather Information 2 81 2 0 01 2 14 m Task 3 - Analyze a L information 0 8 2 16 16 16 58 o Task 4 - Findings Meeting 2 8 1 0 0 2 13 Task 5 - Develop Final Report 1 24 2 0 0 0 27 Task 1- Develop GUI 0 4 2 16 0 0 22 Took 2 - Develop,,, Database 0 4 0 0 16 0 20 N ITask 3 - Develop d Mapi g Components 0 4 0 0 0 16 20 Task 4 - Integrate GUI, Database, and Mapping Components 0 4 0 0 81 0 12 m Task 1 - Application Deployment 0 41 2 0 8 161 30 m Task 2 - Training & Acceptance Testing 1 4 2 4 4 4 191 Total Cost: $33,181.12 Carpool Map Application 9.* Proposal Number P916 P'�'ri November 2003 ENGINEERING • PLANNING CONSTRUCTION SERVICES ENVIRONMENTAL November 25, 2003 Ms. Katy Carpenter, Project Manager City of Fort Collins 215 North Mason Street, 2"d floor Fort Collins, CO 80524 RE: Carpool Map Application, Proposal #P916 Dear Ms. Carpenter: Over the past five years, PBS&J has built a reputation as one of the City of Fort Collins' (City) consultants of choice for transportation planning and engineering services. We are truly committed to upholding this reputation by providing you with cost-effective, innovative solutions that will meet your needs. As a full - service consulting firm, we are excited for this opportunity to introduce our Geographic Information Solutions (GIS) resources and experience that are related to optimizing the current Carpool Map Application project. Our GIS staff can provide solutions to customize the existing ArcMap and Access databases that will ultimately optimize the process for disseminating carpool information. Not only does PBS&J have the experience to fill the scope requirements, but is a business partner, reseller, and beta -testing site for ESRI—the recognized leader in geographic information systems software. They continue to provide assistance to us in acquiring software, designing geodatabases, and training. In fact, PBS&J won the "Business Partner of the Year" award given by ESRI for the application development work completed for the North Carolina debris removal application. Our proposed project manager, Liz Stolz, is located in our Denver office and is a seasoned GIS professional with over 12 years experience. Liz brings a wealth of experience and a track record of successful projects delivered to clients on time and within budget. Liz will serve as the City's primary point of contact and will lead a talented team of professionals who provide unique skills and experience to your project. PBS&J will ensure that the approach outlined in this document will be followed and that quality control will be an integral part of every step in the process. We recognize the City's need for a user-friendly system to help maximize the time for SmartTrips staff to update the Access database and create and update maps in ArcMap. We look forward to the opportunity to assist you in achieving this goal. Sincerely, i P R.A. Plummer, P.E., AICP Associate Vice President 5500 Greenwood Plaza Blvd. • Suite 150 • Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111 • Telephone 303/221-7275 • Fax 303/221-7276 City ut Fort Col lint Table of Contents CompanyHistory .......................................................................................... 1 Capabilities and Similar Experience............................................................... 1 Key Personnel and Availability....................................................................... 3 Proposed Services/Project Approach.............................................................. 5 Phase 1 - Assessment and Recommendations................................................ 6 Phase 2 - Application Development............................................................... 7 Phase 3 - Implementation of the New Carpool Program ................................ 8 Pricing........................................................................................................... 9 Carpool Map Application Proposal Number P916 Pw November 2003 The concept is simple —provide a platform that will collect and distribute information to assist interested parties in arranging carpools to and from work and school. The benefits can be enormous to both the traveling public and the City of Fort Collins (City) —when we reduce the number of cars on the road, we reduce pollution, energy, and travel time. Upon closer examination, however, essential details can start to complicate the process. Fortunately, PBS&J staff has experience working with clients across the nation to solve information solution challenges such as yours, while helping our clients accomplish their goals. Company History PBS&J has served the engineering needs of this nation's communities since the firm was founded in 1960. PBS&J is consistently ranked by Engineering News -Record as one of the top engineering consulting firms in the nation. We have a staff of over 3,200 professional employees in 61 offices throughout the US. Our corporate structure allows us to draw upon the technical resources of our entire firm, as needed, to successfully accomplish any assignment. This means we can provide world -class technology and services to all of our clients. Some of our major services encompass: • Information solutions services • Environmental engineering and sciences • Wastewater treatment design • Hydrology and hydraulic design • Civil and site engineering • Construction management • Transportation planning • Value engineering • Highway/street and interchange design • Traffic engineering and intelligent transportation systems (ITS) More importantly to you, PBS&J has been providing exceptional transportation and traffic engineeringservicesto the _f` City for more than fvg years. Because we are intimately knowledgeable of your transportation related issues, we understand the need to provide citizens with a 'platform that allows them to arrange carpools. We commend your efforts to provide such a service to your public and are excited at the opportunity to assist you in improving your current system. Capabilities and Similar Experience PBS&J's Information Solutions (IS) group was formed more than 10 years ago to address the information management needs of our clients through innovative use of technology. Because each project or task completed by our IS specialists is carefully tailored to meet the needs of the user, two solutions are the same. Our similar experience demonstrates our experience developing all the tools necessary to complete your project. or-th C:_iGi bal Ttansocrk Project The North Carolina Global TransPark (NCGTP) Authority is acquiring parcels for expansion of their facilities in Kinston, North Carolina. Parcels are being acquired for various purposes including mitigation, airfield expansion, and industrial facility development. Due to the significant data collection efforts required for these acquisitions, PBS&J was tasked with developing a database management system for both data entry and reporting. PBS&J developed a system that would also disseminate information related to the acquisition progress through the use of a map -based Internet site using ArcIMS technology. We were able to help the client achieve these goals by developing a complex MS Access database system to track information related to all phases of the acquisition process. This MS Access database information is automatically merged via server -side scripting with the spatial data stored in ESRI shapefile format for presentation through the ArcIMS web site. The map -based system was implemented on the Internet allowing NCGTP personnel secure access to all of the land acquisition data being prepared by PBS&J: This unique map -based system provides a quick visual display of all the land acquisition parcels color -coded by their acquisition status or phase. Beyond the map, the Internet application also provides database query functionality via Active Server Page technology. Users can quickly obtain a list of past and future project activity and "drill -down" to uncover various acquisition details such as service fees, appraisal values, and closing details. When parcels are individually selected, the map display automatically zooms to the selected parcel, providing a visual reference to the user. On-line reports are available that mimic the MS Access reporting functions and accompanying maps can be printed or exported. Carpool Map Application 1 Proposal Number P916 November 2003 W Citvut Hirt Or' ccunty Utilities GIS Web ,ppi t;t on Development and Support Project As part of the Utility Master Plan, PBS&J provided GIS technical support services to the Orange County Utilities Department. Services included technical oversight in the development and implementation of a new geodatabase model —stored in the Oracle RDBMS environment —used by Orange County Utilities GIS, and conducted data conversion exercises and mapping support. One of the many applications developed by PBS&J is one that presents basic utility data on a backdrop of county subdivisions. Dispatch specialists use the application to view utility data in a geographic area. This information is especially helpful in the event of service disruption. During service disruption, the specialist can select an area and determine affected subdivisions. This information is automatically transferred to an e-mail message and sent to response personnel. The email message is composed of tabular data extracted directly from the geodatabase and an image representative of the ArcIMS map display. Local Gover;;mer,t P,edistricting for Commissions, School Districts, and Voter Precincts Public Law 94-171, enacted in 1975, directs the Census Bureau to provide redistricting data needed by the 50 states for their use in redrawing districts of the United States Congress and state legislatures. PBS&J, as a subconsultant to Kurt Spitzer and Associates, has been instrumental in assisting local government consultants, city and county officials, and supervisors of elections with PL 94-171-compliant redistricting plans. We use Caliper Maptitude to import relevant GIS Census data and generate PL 94-171 federally -compliant, population -based district plans. PBS&J uses the carographic tools of ESRI ArcGIS to create attractive and professional map products in both hardcopies and Adobe Acrobat PDF digital files. Plan data is made available via several mediums including distribution on CD-ROM with all GIS data sets, plans, statistics, and ESRI ArcExplorer. Geograpri;c Document Management System PBS&J developed an Internet -based geographic document management system to assist the Arizona Department of Transportation (DOT) in quickly locating environmental information. This web -based application allows users to search the database by text, date, or location and returns a list of relevant environmental documents. If an advanced search is done by keyword, the return information will include the document name, the number of times the keyword is used in the document, and a link to the ArcIMS map showing the location of the document interest. The application was developed using ArcIMS and Active Server Pages that are loaded on a centralized Arizona DOT server. By loading the application on Arizona DOT server, Arizona DOT did not have to purchase, install, configure, or upgrade operating system software on the user's machine. Users are given a login and password to the application and through an internet connection they can begin using the search function of the application. PBS&J was selected by the City of Las Vegas to analyze several route alternatives for a light rail system from the Las Vegas Airport to the downtown "strip." PBS&J collected various data sets for use in this project including parcel boundaries, tax assessor databases, building footprints, and existing roadway alignments. All route alignments for the rail system were overlaid with these data sets to provide a clear picture of the direct effects of each alignment on the surrounding area. This analysis also provided the City with right-of-way acquisition values for each alignment through the overlay with the parcel boundaries containing tax assessor database information. i_f,'!,( R Due to the great demand for increased efficiency among the public transit systems, LYNX, the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority, selected PBS&J to assist them in developing and implementing a GIS-based management system for their bus system. The initial project involved three phases: spatial database development, development of customer information system, and integration of non -spatial databases. The initial spatial database development included the compilation of a digital, geo-coded street network for all counties serviced by the LYNX system. The formation of this database layer involved bringing together data from various sources and formats. Because the counties serviced by LYNX operate on different software systems, this task was especially challenging. Reference database layers, including zip code maps and municipal boundaries, were also compiled in support of the addressed street maps. Additional information collected included the locations of bus stops, links, transfers, schools, shelters, and park -and -rides, and major points of interest in the Orlando area. Once Carpool Map Application 2 Proposal Number P916 November 2003 PW City of Fovt Cni I i., this information was entered into GIS, PBS&J worked with the LYNX team to determine a unique naming convention to identify the routes and any additional data needed for the spatial reference. In order to determine the background layer that best suited their needs, various sources of land use information were reviewed for accuracy and compatibility with the LYNX system. Customer service representatives are able to access the GIS database through a Map Objects application on their desktops. With the additional help of several customized features, customer service representatives are able to use the maps and applications to facilitate the public in finding the most direct bus routes for travel. LYNX staff was also able to make adjustments to routes. PBS&J provided full software and data usage training to LYNX staff and worked alongside the customer service representatives throughout the BETA testing in order to refine the database for efficient use. Key Personnel Our tireless efforts to provide you with responsive, client focused service and top-notch deliverables have made us one of your consultants of choice. In an effort to expand our services to you, we propose a team ofgiffed professionals with extensive experience addressing the information management needs of our clients throughout the nation. We are committed to upholding our stellar reputation by providing you cost-effective, innovative solutions that will address all of your needs on the carpool map application. Liz Stolz will lead our team from our Denver -- office. Some of our proposed staff might be familiar to you as some are currently working ,on your Transportation{ Master Plan Update and the Civil Engineering Design, Drafting, and Surveying Services contract. Our proposed project organization is depicted here and key personnel qualifications follow. PBS&J is determined to provide the City with a state-of-the-art system that will meet your needs and we commit to doing whatever it takes to get the job done. Liz Stolz, Project Manager, has 12 ears of comprehensive experience developing and managing GIS application_ development projects specifically for city, county, and state agencies. As the GIS Manager for the City of Hurst, Texas, she was responsible for developing and maintaining GIS routing applications used by the Economic Development and Public Works (utility—water/wastewater/energy) and transportation (traffic, roadway design, and streets maintenance) departments. In this and other positions, she was responsible for the configuration, upgrade, Carpool Map Application g Proposal Number P916 November 2003 Cityuf Fort Collin. and user assistance for transportation administration, environmental, and utilities information technology (IT) programs. As project manager, Liz will be responsible for overall success of the project. She will monitor the budget and schedule and will quickly resolve any issues that might rise. R.A. Plummer, P.E., AICP, Principal in Charge, has over 11 Years of experience in transportation planning and engineering including five years experience working with the City. R.A. served as PBS&J's project manager on the Northern Colorado Truck Mobility/SH 14 Relocation Study, the Transportation Master Plan Update, and is serving as project director/principal in charge on the Civil Engineering Design, Drafting, and Surveying Services contract. As principal in charge, R.A. will meet periodically with Katy Carpenter, to ensure all her needs are being met and ensure that our project manager, Liz Stolz, has all the resources she needs to complete the project on time and within budget. Josh Price, Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) Manager, has three years of comprehensive experience in GIS application and technology development including documentation, training, and QA/QC. He has worked on projects delivering and signing -off on all requirements specifications and final deliverables that target the client's needs and are held to the highest quality standards possible. Josh has used these skills to provide QA/QC information solutions for large clients such as the FEMA Map Coordination Contractor (MCC) services that solve many technical issues associated with software implementation and database integration. As project leader in support of FEMA, he was responsible for dozens of mapping and GIS database projects requiring application of rigorous standards and his approval before delivery to FEMA. For Fort Collins, Josh will provide invaluable QA/QC -- process an procedures documentation and training while helping the parcel maintenance application development team meet or exceed the City requirements. Richard Scobee, Database Design Manager, has more than nine years experience developing custom information technology solutions including more than four years developing engineering and environmental science applications. His specialties include development of large-scale data analysis applications, client/server database designs and implementations, data management applications, data conversion tools, web browser applications, and enterprise application systems. As an experienced. data base administrator, Richard has been involved in numerous projects involving the design and maintenance of complex relational databases and has been involved in testing and maintaining several databases on multiple platforms for a state-wide asset management application for the Florida Department of Transportation. Melisa Caric, Applications Developer, has four years of comprehensive experience in GIS applications and technology development providing applications'for clients in support of transportation, water, and wastewater projects. Melisa's primary work responsibilities include GIS application development, database development, conducting spatial analyses, and map production while working for the San Diego Association of Governments, Melisa was involved in the annual update of the County's parcel data that kept track of historical ownership and use changes for the county of San Diego. More recently, she has merged parcel data for three Colorado counties preserving key fields and maintaining spatial integrity of the database for the C-470 parcel management system for the Colorado DOT. Bryan Zumwalt, Application Developer, has more than tars of experience as an information solutions developer with PBSU In that capacity, his responsibilities include GIS and Internet programming, applications development, and database analysis. His primary work activities involve designing, developing, testing, and documenting web -enabled and desktop GIS applications. As an accomplished web -based database application designer, Bryan was recently involved in web enabling the C-470 Parcel Management System for the Colorado Department of Transportation. Carpool Map Application 4 Proposal Number P916 PW November 2003 C ilvof Fort Collins Proposed Services/Project Approach Before proposing solutions, we must first f understand your current system. After thoroughly reviewing the request for proposal, we developed a general understanding of your current system as illustrated in Figure 1. While this process works, we can help you streamline and update the application with newer technology, ultimately saving the City both time and money required to maintain tTe system. ---- School ArcMap ArcMap ArcMap pool Shapefile Rider intemet Merge rider's ♦ Oaute♦M_ap creation userinput address c e,. riders ra hical Regular informtiuser interface p0°I into shapefile location map (GUI) Figure 1 ridersMS Access MS Access nriders � Merge rider's Address address ♦ matching '� information query in MS Currently into MS access access table cl unable to map table or match riders outside area A �sMS Send(2)final reports for rider 1) Home location table and map 2). Person's name phone, destination work hours Print (2) final reports for rider 1) Home location table and map 2). Person's name phone,destination work hours Figure 2 is an example of a streamlined process that might work for you. We will follow our proven project approach to help you identify the most efficient, cost-effective solution to meet your needs. Figure 2 Ma and Table sent to Carpooled via poste ore ectronic mail. Carpool Map Application 5 Proposal Number P916 November 2003 PW Our project approach is organized in three phases. In Phase 1, we will completely assess the current system, evaluate what additional elements or eaturf es you would like added, and make recommendations or so utions we feel will best assist you in accomplishing your goals. In naafawe will develop the agreed upon_a lication and Phase 3 will involve testing, installation, and deployment. Each phase is7 id scusseTiri t efi cello owing sections. �;a,e i 4..e,5n t ou!d Rccnmmendation, PBS&J will conduct a thorn review of all existing carpool program processes including all mapping and database applications associated with creating and maintaining the program. We will gather information through on -site meetings and workshops and stakeholder communication such as phone calls and written reports. System needs and reequirerne tc wilLle-documented andpresentedto the jn final Recommendations Report. Task 1 — Kick-off Meeting. The first task upon receiving notice to proceed, will be to schedule a project kick-off meeting. This kick-off meeting needs to include, at a minimum, representatives of the SmartTrips and GIS staff. Objectives of the meeting include: • Introduce key team members • Review goals and objectives of the project • Review the roles and responsibilities of the project team • Establish agreed upon schedule and milestones • Identify the process requirements for the carpool system • Review the project deliverables • Discuss the system architecture, ArcIMS, ArcGIS, geodatabase, and MS Access design issues Task 2 — Gather Information. One of the most critical elements of this project will be to identify and survey key stakeholders of the carpool system. Stakeholders are defined as decision -makers, suppliers or administrators of data, and/or users of the carpool system. By soliciting input from stakeholders early in the process, we are better suited to ensure that all system needs and requirements are identified and addressed in the assessment and recommendations. Methods used to collect information will include telephone interviews and written questionnaires. This task will continue throughout Phase 1 and will provide us information critical to completing all tasks. Task 3 — Analyze Information. During Task 3, we will review, evaluate, and rovide the Citv with _ recommendations for changes and .improyements_to.streamline the pis)cess. We will use the results from Task 1 and 2 to evaluate the current data maintenance procedures and recommend best -in -class technology solutions that will allow for an integrated approach to future system processes and procedures. We will then develop recommended solutions that will streamline the carpool process without eliminating any necessary quality or functionality. These recommendations will be presented in the findings meeting during Task 4. Proposed and Updated Database Design. We will develop a database design for the carpool attribute data that will integrate with the MS Acce data _This database design will take advantage of xisting City database schemas, structures, and organization of data with the necessary changes and integration touch points identified. From a technology and infrastructure perspective, we will rely on the City to provide existing GIS and database standards, methodologies, policies, environment, scalability, and budgetary information and considerations. From a data level, we will review all existing software technologies, schemas, sample data outputs, user accuracy requirements, and user currency requirements. Obtaining a copy of the existing database will help the PBS&J team evaluate existing database field definitions. In summary, PBS&J will work with the City to develop a baseline for, identifying the following that will be presented during Task 4: • Current processes and systems used ■ Overall process inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement and process streamlining • Application development needs and requirements • Carpool database design Carpool Map Application 6 Proposal Number P916 PW November 2003