Software solutions designed to streamline the handling of “Call Before You Dig” requests are essential tools for utility companies and excavation professionals. These systems facilitate the intake, processing, and tracking of notifications preceding any digging activity, ensuring compliance with regulations designed to protect underground infrastructure. For instance, a municipality’s water department might employ such a system to manage incoming requests and dispatch locators to mark the positions of buried water pipes before road construction commences.
The benefits of these systems are multifaceted. They enhance efficiency by automating many tasks associated with managing locate requests, reducing the potential for human error and accelerating response times. Historically, these processes were often handled manually, leading to delays and increased risk of damage to underground utilities. The adoption of digital solutions significantly minimizes these risks, leading to cost savings, improved public safety, and reduced service disruptions. Centralized management of requests also provides valuable data for analysis, allowing organizations to identify trends, optimize resource allocation, and improve overall operational performance.
The following sections will delve into the specific functionalities, deployment considerations, and available options within these crucial software applications, exploring features such as automated ticket routing, mapping integration, mobile field access, and reporting capabilities that contribute to a robust damage prevention program.
1. Automation
Automation forms a critical foundation of effective “811 ticket management software.” The inherent volume and time-sensitive nature of “Call Before You Dig” requests necessitate automated processes to ensure efficient handling and regulatory compliance. This automation encompasses several key areas, including ticket creation, routing, notification, and reporting. For example, an incoming locate request, whether submitted online or via phone, can be automatically entered into the system, eliminating manual data entry and reducing the risk of errors. The system can then automatically route the ticket to the appropriate utility owner based on geographic location and the type of excavation activity described in the request. This automated routing ensures that the request reaches the responsible party without delay, minimizing the timeframe for locate services.
Beyond initial ticket processing, automation extends to notification procedures. The system automatically sends notifications to excavators, utility owners, and other relevant parties, providing timely updates on the status of the locate request. These notifications can be delivered via email, SMS, or other channels, ensuring that stakeholders remain informed throughout the process. Furthermore, automation plays a vital role in compliance management. The software can track critical deadlines, automatically escalate overdue requests, and generate reports to demonstrate adherence to regulatory requirements. For instance, a system can automatically escalate a ticket if a utility owner fails to acknowledge the request within the mandated timeframe, alerting supervisors and triggering corrective action. This proactive approach helps prevent potential violations and minimizes the risk of fines or penalties.
In summary, automation is indispensable for efficient and compliant “811 ticket management.” It streamlines workflows, reduces manual effort, minimizes errors, and ensures that all stakeholders are kept informed. The practical significance of this automation lies in its ability to reduce the risk of damage to underground infrastructure, protect public safety, and minimize disruptions to essential services. Without robust automation features, “811 ticket management software” would struggle to effectively manage the high volume and stringent time constraints associated with “Call Before You Dig” requests, leading to increased risks and potential liabilities.
2. Compliance
Compliance is inextricably linked to “811 ticket management software.” The software serves as a central platform for adhering to the complex web of regulations governing excavation activities and the protection of underground utilities. Failure to comply can result in significant penalties, service disruptions, and, most importantly, risks to public safety. The software facilitates adherence to mandated timelines, record-keeping requirements, and communication protocols.
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Adherence to State and Federal Regulations
State and federal laws dictate specific timelines for responding to locate requests, marking underground facilities, and notifying excavators. “811 ticket management software” provides tools to track these deadlines, automatically escalate overdue requests, and generate reports demonstrating compliance. For instance, many states require utilities to respond to locate requests within a specific timeframe, such as 48 or 72 hours. The software can trigger alerts when these deadlines approach, ensuring timely action and preventing potential violations.
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Documentation and Audit Trails
Comprehensive documentation is essential for demonstrating compliance in the event of an audit or investigation. “811 ticket management software” automatically records all interactions related to a locate request, including the date and time the request was received, the actions taken by utility locators, and any communication with the excavator. This audit trail provides a verifiable record of compliance with regulatory requirements. For example, in the event of a damage incident, the software’s audit trail can be used to demonstrate that the utility took all necessary steps to locate and mark its facilities in accordance with applicable regulations.
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Standardized Processes and Procedures
“811 ticket management software” enforces standardized processes and procedures for handling locate requests, ensuring consistency and accuracy across the organization. This standardization helps to minimize errors and reduces the risk of non-compliance. For example, the software can require locators to follow a specific checklist when marking underground facilities, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken and that the markings are accurate and consistent.
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Integration with Regulatory Databases
Some “811 ticket management software” solutions integrate with regulatory databases, allowing for automated verification of excavator credentials and compliance with training requirements. This integration helps to ensure that only qualified excavators are permitted to dig near underground facilities. For example, the software can automatically check an excavator’s license against a state database to verify that it is valid and that the excavator has completed the required safety training.
In conclusion, “811 ticket management software” is not simply a tool for managing locate requests; it is a critical component of a comprehensive compliance program. By automating key processes, enforcing standardized procedures, and providing comprehensive documentation, the software helps to ensure that utilities and excavators adhere to all applicable regulations, minimizing the risk of damage to underground infrastructure and protecting public safety. The investment in robust “811 ticket management software” is therefore an investment in compliance, safety, and risk mitigation.
3. Dispatch
Dispatch functionality within “811 ticket management software” represents a crucial nexus between incoming locate requests and the deployment of field resources. The efficiency and accuracy of this dispatch process directly influence response times and the overall effectiveness of damage prevention efforts. A robust dispatch module facilitates the assignment of locate requests to qualified personnel based on factors such as geographic proximity, workload, and expertise. For example, upon receiving a ticket indicating excavation near a high-pressure gas line, the system could automatically prioritize and dispatch a technician with specialized training in gas line locating. This targeted dispatch minimizes delays and ensures the appropriate expertise is applied to each locate request, mitigating potential risks.
The integration of real-time location tracking further enhances dispatch capabilities. Supervisors can monitor the locations of field technicians, assess their availability, and assign new requests based on their current position. This reduces travel time, optimizes resource allocation, and improves responsiveness to urgent requests. Furthermore, mobile access to the dispatch system allows field personnel to receive and acknowledge new assignments, update ticket statuses, and communicate with dispatchers from the field. This streamlined communication loop minimizes delays and ensures that dispatchers have accurate, up-to-date information about the progress of each locate request. The practical application of this real-time information is seen when unexpected congestion delays a field technician; the dispatch system can identify this and re-assign the request to another qualified technician nearby.
In conclusion, dispatch functionality is an indispensable component of “811 ticket management software.” Its effectiveness directly impacts response times, resource allocation, and the overall success of damage prevention efforts. Challenges remain in optimizing dispatch algorithms to account for unpredictable factors such as traffic congestion and unexpected delays. However, the ongoing development and refinement of dispatch capabilities within “811 ticket management software” are essential for minimizing damage to underground infrastructure and ensuring public safety. The link between efficient dispatch and effective damage prevention is undeniable, highlighting the importance of a well-designed and implemented dispatch module within these systems.
4. Mapping
Mapping is an integral component of “811 ticket management software,” providing a crucial visual context for managing locate requests and protecting underground infrastructure. The integration of mapping capabilities enhances situational awareness, improves accuracy, and facilitates efficient resource allocation. The spatial representation of dig sites, utility locations, and other relevant features is essential for effective damage prevention.
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Precise Location Identification
Mapping functionality allows for the precise identification of excavation sites, minimizing ambiguity and reducing the risk of miscommunication. By geocoding the dig site address and displaying it on a map, the system ensures that locators have a clear understanding of the area to be marked. For example, if an excavator submits a request with a vague or incomplete address, the mapping system can be used to pinpoint the exact location of the proposed digging activity, improving accuracy and reducing the potential for errors.
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Utility Infrastructure Visualization
Mapping enables the visualization of underground utility infrastructure, providing locators with a clear understanding of the facilities that may be affected by excavation activities. By overlaying utility maps on top of the dig site location, the system allows locators to identify potential conflicts and take appropriate precautions. For instance, a locator approaching a site can quickly identify the presence of a high-pressure gas pipeline and adjust their marking procedures accordingly.
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Asset Management Integration
Integration with asset management systems provides access to detailed information about underground facilities, including material type, size, and depth. This information is crucial for accurate marking and damage prevention. For example, if the mapping system indicates that a fiber optic cable is buried at a shallow depth, the locator can use extra caution to avoid damaging it.
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Spatial Analysis and Risk Assessment
Mapping facilitates spatial analysis and risk assessment, allowing users to identify areas with a high density of underground utilities or a history of damage incidents. This information can be used to prioritize locate requests and allocate resources more effectively. For instance, the software can highlight areas with a high concentration of underground utilities, prompting locators to conduct a more thorough investigation before marking the site.
In summary, the mapping functionality within “811 ticket management software” provides a vital visual layer for managing locate requests and protecting underground infrastructure. By integrating precise location data, utility infrastructure visualization, asset management information, and spatial analysis capabilities, the software enhances situational awareness, improves accuracy, and facilitates efficient resource allocation. The effective utilization of mapping is essential for minimizing damage to underground facilities and ensuring public safety. The continued development and refinement of mapping capabilities within these systems will further improve the effectiveness of damage prevention efforts.
5. Reporting
Reporting functionality within “811 ticket management software” provides essential insights into the operational performance, compliance adherence, and risk mitigation efforts associated with damage prevention programs. It serves as the mechanism through which raw data is transformed into actionable intelligence, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and optimize resource allocation. The effectiveness of reporting capabilities directly impacts the ability to identify trends, monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), and demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements. For instance, a utility company might utilize reporting to track the average response time to locate requests, identifying potential bottlenecks in the process and implementing measures to improve efficiency. Without robust reporting, the ability to proactively manage risks and ensure compliance is significantly diminished, increasing the potential for damage to underground infrastructure and associated liabilities.
The scope of reporting within “811 ticket management software” extends across various dimensions of the locate request process. It encompasses metrics related to ticket volume, response times, locate accuracy, damage incidents, and regulatory compliance. For example, reporting can be used to identify areas with a high frequency of damage incidents, prompting targeted outreach and education efforts to excavators and contractors working in those areas. Furthermore, reporting allows for the generation of customized reports tailored to the specific needs of different stakeholders, including management, field personnel, and regulatory agencies. For example, management might utilize reports to monitor overall program performance and identify areas for improvement, while field personnel might utilize reports to track their individual productivity and identify potential hazards in the field. A real-world application includes utilizing reporting to demonstrate adherence to state-mandated timelines for responding to locate requests, providing verifiable evidence of compliance to regulatory authorities. Another is tracking the number of “no locate” incidents, where a utility fails to mark its facilities within the required timeframe, triggering internal investigations and corrective actions.
In conclusion, reporting is a critical and indispensable component of “811 ticket management software,” providing a vital link between data collection and informed decision-making. It facilitates the identification of trends, the monitoring of KPIs, and the demonstration of compliance with regulatory requirements, ultimately contributing to the overall effectiveness of damage prevention efforts. Challenges remain in ensuring data accuracy and integrity, as well as in developing user-friendly reporting interfaces that can effectively communicate complex information to a diverse audience. However, the ongoing development and refinement of reporting capabilities within “811 ticket management software” are essential for minimizing damage to underground infrastructure, protecting public safety, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of damage prevention programs.
6. Mobile Access
Mobile access is a significant element of modern “811 ticket management software,” extending the system’s functionality beyond the confines of a traditional office environment. This capability enables field personnel to interact with the system in real-time, facilitating more efficient locate operations and improving overall responsiveness.
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Real-time Ticket Management
Mobile access provides field technicians with the ability to receive, review, and update locate requests directly from their mobile devices. This eliminates the need to return to the office to collect new assignments or report on completed work, streamlining the workflow and reducing response times. For example, upon completion of a locate, the technician can immediately update the ticket status, upload photos of the markings, and add any relevant notes directly from the field, ensuring that the system contains accurate and up-to-date information.
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GPS Integration and Navigation
The integration of GPS technology within mobile access applications allows for precise location tracking and navigation to dig sites. This eliminates the potential for errors caused by inaccurate addresses or unclear directions, ensuring that locators arrive at the correct location promptly. For instance, the system can automatically generate turn-by-turn directions to the dig site, guiding the technician directly to the location and reducing travel time.
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Offline Functionality
Mobile access applications often include offline functionality, allowing field technicians to continue working even in areas with limited or no cellular connectivity. This ensures that locate operations can proceed uninterrupted, regardless of network availability. The data collected offline is then automatically synchronized with the system when a network connection is re-established. For example, a technician working in a rural area with spotty cell service can still access and update locate requests, and the changes will be synced when they return to an area with better connectivity.
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Documentation and Evidence Capture
Mobile access facilitates the capture and storage of documentation and evidence related to locate operations. Field technicians can use their mobile devices to take photos of markings, record field notes, and document any potential hazards or complications encountered at the dig site. This provides a verifiable record of the locate process and can be used to resolve disputes or investigate damage incidents. An example involves a technician documenting pre-existing damage to a utility facility prior to excavation; this documentation can protect the utility from being wrongly blamed for the damage caused by the excavation.
The facets presented indicate the integration of mobile access within “811 ticket management software” enhances efficiency, accuracy, and accountability throughout the locate process. This evolution supports the need for real-time communication, data collection, and situational awareness, ultimately contributing to the effectiveness of damage prevention efforts. Continued refinements in mobile technology will further expand these capabilities, optimizing workflows and reducing the risks associated with underground excavation.
7. Integration
The ability of “811 ticket management software” to integrate with other systems is a critical determinant of its overall effectiveness. Seamless data exchange between disparate platforms eliminates data silos, reduces manual effort, and enhances the accuracy and timeliness of information available to stakeholders.
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GIS (Geographic Information System) Integration
Integration with GIS systems allows for the overlay of locate request information on detailed maps, providing a spatial context for decision-making. This enables locators to visualize the proximity of underground facilities to proposed excavation sites, improving the accuracy of markings and reducing the risk of damage. For example, the system could automatically identify potential conflicts between proposed excavation activities and existing utility infrastructure, alerting locators to take extra precautions in those areas.
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Asset Management System (AMS) Integration
AMS integration allows for the seamless exchange of data related to underground assets, such as pipe material, size, and installation date. This information is crucial for accurate locate operations and effective damage prevention. The exchange of asset information improves locate efficiency, ensuring that field personnel have the most accurate data available when marking underground facilities. This reduces the potential for damage caused by inaccurate or incomplete records.
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CRM (Customer Relationship Management) Integration
CRM integration allows for the tracking of interactions with excavators, homeowners, and other stakeholders. This facilitates effective communication and helps to build strong relationships with the communities served. For instance, a system could automatically record all phone calls, emails, and other communications related to a specific locate request, providing a comprehensive audit trail of all interactions.
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Financial System Integration
Financial system integration streamlines billing processes and provides accurate cost tracking for locate operations. This allows utilities to efficiently recover the costs associated with providing locate services and to track the financial impact of damage prevention efforts. For example, the system could automatically generate invoices for locate services based on the time and materials expended, ensuring accurate and timely billing.
These integrations collectively enhance the value of “811 ticket management software” by creating a unified platform for managing all aspects of the locate request process. The ability to seamlessly exchange data between systems reduces manual effort, improves data accuracy, and enhances the overall efficiency of damage prevention efforts. These connections are essential for reducing risk and maximizing the effectiveness of damage prevention programs.
8. Notification
Notifications form a cornerstone of effective “811 ticket management software,” directly impacting the efficiency and reliability of damage prevention programs. These automated alerts serve as the primary mechanism for disseminating critical information to all stakeholders involved in the excavation process. Timely and accurate notifications reduce the likelihood of miscommunication, minimize delays, and ultimately decrease the risk of damage to underground infrastructure. For instance, upon receiving a locate request, the system automatically notifies the relevant utility companies, initiating the process of locating and marking underground facilities before excavation begins. The failure of such notifications can lead to excavators unknowingly damaging buried lines, resulting in service disruptions, costly repairs, and potential safety hazards. The core purpose of such software hinges on the reliable delivery of these notifications.
The notification system within this software typically encompasses multiple channels to ensure information delivery. Email, SMS messages, and in-app alerts are commonly employed to reach excavators, utility locators, and system administrators. For example, an excavator might receive an SMS notification confirming receipt of their locate request and providing an estimated date for the completion of the locate. Simultaneously, the assigned utility locator receives an email detailing the specifics of the request, including the dig site location and a link to relevant maps. Furthermore, the system can trigger escalation notifications to supervisors if locate requests are not acknowledged or completed within the mandated timeframe. This multi-layered notification approach reinforces the importance of timely action and accountability at each stage of the process. Some jurisdictions impose stringent fines for delays or failures in the notification process, highlighting the legal and financial implications of an inadequate system.
Effective notification management therefore requires careful configuration and monitoring within the “811 ticket management software.” Challenges include ensuring accurate contact information for all stakeholders, managing notification preferences, and preventing false positives or spam filters from blocking critical alerts. A robust notification system must also provide audit trails to verify that notifications were sent and received, providing evidence of compliance in the event of a damage incident or regulatory investigation. In summary, the notification component of “811 ticket management software” plays a critical role in coordinating excavation activities, reducing the risk of damage to underground infrastructure, and safeguarding public safety. Its reliable operation is paramount to the success of any damage prevention program, requiring constant vigilance and refinement to address evolving communication needs and technological advancements.
9. Documentation
Documentation constitutes a foundational element of “811 ticket management software,” ensuring accountability, facilitating compliance, and enabling effective incident analysis. The thorough recording of actions and decisions made throughout the locate request lifecycle is paramount for minimizing liability and optimizing operational efficiency. Without comprehensive documentation capabilities, the ability to demonstrate adherence to regulatory requirements and reconstruct the sequence of events leading to a damage incident is severely compromised.
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Record Keeping for Regulatory Compliance
Documentation within “811 ticket management software” directly supports adherence to state and federal regulations governing excavation activities. These regulations often mandate the retention of specific records, including the date and time a locate request was received, the identity of the locator assigned to the request, and details regarding the markings placed at the dig site. For instance, a utility company may be required to maintain records demonstrating that it responded to a locate request within the timeframe mandated by law. “811 ticket management software” facilitates the automated generation and storage of these records, providing a readily accessible audit trail for regulatory inspections.
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Liability Mitigation
Comprehensive documentation is critical for mitigating liability in the event of a damage incident. If underground facilities are damaged during excavation, the records maintained within the “811 ticket management software” can be used to determine whether the utility company and the excavator followed proper procedures. For example, if an excavator damages a gas line, the utility company can use the documentation to demonstrate that it accurately marked the location of the line prior to excavation, potentially shifting liability to the excavator. Thorough documentation can significantly reduce the financial and legal consequences associated with damage incidents.
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Incident Analysis and Process Improvement
Documentation facilitates the analysis of damage incidents and the identification of areas for process improvement. By reviewing the records associated with past incidents, utility companies can identify patterns, root causes, and contributing factors. For example, an analysis of damage incidents may reveal that a particular geographic area experiences a disproportionately high number of damages due to inaccurate mapping data. This information can be used to prioritize mapping updates and improve the accuracy of locate operations in that area. Documentation, therefore, becomes a tool for continuous improvement.
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Training and Knowledge Transfer
Well-maintained documentation serves as a valuable resource for training new employees and facilitating knowledge transfer within an organization. Detailed records of past locate requests, including the challenges encountered and the solutions implemented, can provide valuable insights for new locators. For example, a training manual could include case studies of past locate requests, highlighting the importance of accurate marking and the potential consequences of errors. Documentation promotes consistency and ensures that best practices are followed throughout the organization.
In conclusion, the robust documentation capabilities of “811 ticket management software” are essential for ensuring regulatory compliance, mitigating liability, facilitating incident analysis, and promoting training and knowledge transfer. The investment in a system that prioritizes comprehensive documentation is an investment in the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of damage prevention programs.
Frequently Asked Questions about 811 Ticket Management Software
This section addresses common inquiries regarding “811 ticket management software” and its application in damage prevention programs. The information provided is intended to clarify key aspects of the software and its functionality.
Question 1: What is the primary function of 811 ticket management software?
The primary function of “811 ticket management software” is to streamline and automate the process of managing “Call Before You Dig” requests. It facilitates the intake, processing, tracking, and documentation of locate requests to ensure compliance with damage prevention regulations and minimize the risk of damage to underground infrastructure.
Question 2: How does 811 ticket management software contribute to regulatory compliance?
“811 ticket management software” assists in regulatory compliance by automating tasks such as tracking response times, generating compliance reports, and maintaining audit trails of all actions taken related to locate requests. This ensures that utility companies and excavators adhere to mandated timelines and procedures, reducing the risk of fines or penalties.
Question 3: What are the key benefits of implementing 811 ticket management software?
The key benefits include improved efficiency, reduced response times, enhanced accuracy, minimized errors, streamlined communication, and better compliance with regulations. Additionally, it provides valuable data for analysis, allowing organizations to identify trends, optimize resource allocation, and improve overall operational performance.
Question 4: What features are typically included in 811 ticket management software?
Common features include automated ticket routing, mapping integration, mobile access for field personnel, reporting and analytics, notification management, and integration with other systems such as GIS and asset management platforms. These features collectively contribute to a robust and comprehensive damage prevention program.
Question 5: How does mobile access enhance the effectiveness of 811 ticket management software?
Mobile access allows field personnel to receive, update, and close locate requests directly from their mobile devices in real-time. This eliminates the need for manual paperwork, reduces travel time, and improves communication between field and office staff, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of locate operations.
Question 6: Is 811 ticket management software suitable for all types of utility companies?
“811 ticket management software” is generally suitable for any organization responsible for managing underground infrastructure, including utility companies, municipalities, and excavation professionals. However, the specific features and functionalities may vary depending on the size and complexity of the organization and its operational requirements.
The answers provided offer insight into various facets of this specialized software. This is intended to promote better understanding among stakeholders in damage prevention.
The next section will explore emerging trends and future developments in the realm of “811 ticket management software,” providing a glimpse into the evolving landscape of damage prevention technology.
Tips for Optimizing 811 Ticket Management Software
These tips are designed to assist organizations in maximizing the value derived from “811 ticket management software,” leading to more efficient operations and reduced risk of damage to underground infrastructure.
Tip 1: Ensure Accurate and Up-to-Date Mapping Data: Accurate mapping data is crucial for effective locate operations. Verify the accuracy of GIS data and regularly update maps to reflect changes in underground infrastructure. Inaccurate maps can lead to misidentified facilities and increased risk of damage.
Tip 2: Implement Automated Ticket Routing: Automate the routing of locate requests to the appropriate utility owners based on geographic location and facility type. Automated routing reduces manual effort, minimizes delays, and ensures that requests are handled by the responsible parties.
Tip 3: Utilize Mobile Access for Field Personnel: Equip field personnel with mobile devices that provide real-time access to locate requests, mapping data, and communication tools. Mobile access streamlines workflows, improves response times, and enhances communication between field and office staff.
Tip 4: Establish Clear Communication Protocols: Develop clear communication protocols for interacting with excavators, utility owners, and other stakeholders. This minimizes miscommunication and ensures that all parties are informed of the status of locate requests.
Tip 5: Regularly Review and Analyze Performance Data: Utilize the reporting and analytics features of “811 ticket management software” to track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as response times, accuracy rates, and damage incidents. This data provides valuable insights for identifying areas for improvement and optimizing operational performance.
Tip 6: Integrate with Other Relevant Systems: Integrate “811 ticket management software” with other systems such as GIS, asset management platforms, and CRM systems. This ensures seamless data exchange, reduces manual effort, and improves the overall efficiency of damage prevention efforts.
Tip 7: Provide Ongoing Training for Users: Provide ongoing training for all users of “811 ticket management software” to ensure they are proficient in its use and understand best practices for damage prevention. Regular training helps to maximize the value derived from the software and minimizes the risk of human error.
Implementing these tips will contribute to a more efficient and effective damage prevention program, reducing the risk of damage to underground infrastructure and improving public safety.
The subsequent section will summarize the core tenets of “811 ticket management software” and its critical role in safeguarding underground facilities.
Conclusion
The preceding exploration has detailed the multifaceted nature of “811 ticket management software.” From automation and compliance to dispatch, mapping, reporting, mobile access, integration, notification, and documentation, these systems represent a critical infrastructure for protecting underground facilities. The functionalities discussed underscore the complexity and importance of effective damage prevention programs.
Given the increasing density of underground utilities and the ever-present risk of excavation damage, a continued commitment to innovation and investment in robust “811 ticket management software” remains paramount. Organizations responsible for managing underground infrastructure must prioritize the implementation of these systems and adhere to best practices to ensure the safety, reliability, and sustainability of essential services. The future relies on vigilance and proactive damage prevention measures.