What effect does Resource Intelligence have in terms of initial IT costs?
When having the Waltero solution, thereby making use of Resource Intelligence, the overall costs are reduced compared to standardized methods. The initial IT cost for setting up a project with Waltero is minimal, especially in the case of a pilot project. If no integrations of SCADA systems are required, the project can be run without any alterations to either physical components, which are the meters, or software. Data can be reviewed using the W-Cloud web interface or exported to spreadsheets for further processing.
Typical components of standardized methods’ IT costs – And how Waltero responds to them
Hardware Costs: This includes servers, computers, data centers, routers, switches, and other physical technology infrastructure. Since the only device needed to get started with the Waltero solution is the W-Sensor, no additional hardware costs will be incurred. It’s important to highlight that no new meter has to be installed in order to use Waltero’s solution.
Software Costs: This encompasses the cost of purchasing or licensing software (like operating systems, databases, ERP systems, cybersecurity software, etc.), as well as costs associated with maintaining, updating, or customizing the software. As the Waltero software, the W-Cloud, is a SaaS solution, there will only be a monthly cost of use.
Installation Costs: The W-Sensor is a simple add on device that is retrofitted to the existing meter. The installation can be done by non skilled personnel, even as a DIY. Since no utility lines are opened up, no certifications are required. The installation is therefore quick and performed at a low cost.
Cloud Services: Many organizations use cloud-based solutions for their IT needs. Costs here can include cloud storage fees, processing fees, and the costs of any Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), or Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) solutions the company uses. When using the W-Cloud all you need is a login and you’re up and running.
Labor Costs: This covers salaries and benefits for IT staff, as well as costs associated with hiring, training, and retaining IT professionals. Since the Waltero solution is a SaaS solution, only a shorter introduction is needed for administrators – and a pilot project can be conducted without an actual IT department (however they should be informed).
IT Services: If a company outsources certain IT functions, such as helpdesk support, network maintenance, or cybersecurity, it incurs costs for these services. The Waltero solution comes in a package where the IT-service is included in the monthly fee – it helps by giving an overview.
Network Costs: This includes expenses related to data communication like broadband connection, network infrastructure, and wireless connectivity. Waltero’s customers normally uses their regular suppliers for communication services, however if not possible Waltero offer coverage through their suppliers.
Security Costs: This can include the costs of cybersecurity software, as well as costs related to securing physical IT assets, performing security audits, and responding to security incidents. With Waltero no extra cost is added for security – security measurements are embedded in the solution.
Training Costs: This encompasses the expenses of training employees to use new technologies and software, as well as ongoing training for IT professionals to keep their skills up-to-date. Since what Waltero offer is an easy to use device and service no extensive training is needed, leading to extra costs. For ease of use online tooltips guide the user.
Maintenance and Upgrade Costs: This includes the costs of maintaining and upgrading hardware and software, including the costs of any downtime during these processes. This is all included in the Waltero service fee.
Depreciation: For long-lived IT assets like servers and data centers, companies often account for the cost of the asset over its useful life rather than all at once, which is called depreciation. These considerations are also included in the Waltero service fee.
Beneficial aspects in the initial phase of Waltero project
- No involvement of the IT department required for the evaluation – however important that they’re informed about the project
- Communication solution out of the box, inclusive meter readers
- W-Cloud dashboard and export to spreadsheets to be used
- No need for opening up any closed utility lines. Post-trial, the business can go back to the normal state 100%
- The cost of the trial is linear to the project size
