Get to know me
I am a dedicated and highly skilled technical consultant with a history of delivering significant contributions to organizations across a variety of industries. My career has been marked by a strong commitment to deliver solutions that align with business objectives.
Miroslav Visekruna
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Services I offer to clients
I provide a holistic approach to geospatial system development using the Esri ArcGIS Platform. I encompass everything from initial assessment and design to implementation, integration, security, and ongoing support. These are important and essential considerations for organizations looking to leverage the value of geospatial using Esri technology.
The ArcGIS Platform often needs to integrate with other enterprise systems and databases within an organization. I can work with you to devise integration strategies and implement connectors to seamlessly exchange data and functionality.
I provide both on-site and remote support services for the ArcGIS Platform to ensure your users receive the assistance they need, whether it involves physical presence for complex tasks or remote troubleshooting for software-related issues. These support options contribute to the effectiveness and reliability of individuals using your ArcGIS Platform for their mapping, spatial analysis, and data management needs.
Project Management services for the Esri ArcGIS Platform are designed to streamline geospatial projects, from inception to completion. The purpose is to help your organization harness the Esri ArcGIS Platform and technology to efficiently manage your spatial data and GIS initiatives, ultimately achieving your geospatial goals effectively and within budget.
For unique business requirements, custom applications and tools may be necessary. My services include the development of custom geospatial applications, tools and automations tailored fit to the needs of your organization.
Organizations transitioning to the Esri Utility Network as their network model are swiftly discovering that this represents more than just an enhancement; rather, it entails a comprehensive re-build of their entire GIS infrastructure. A Utility Network migration will enable your organization to leverage the advanced capabilities of the ArcGIS Utility Network Management extension. These capabilities include enhanced network modeling, real-time asset tracking, improved spatial analysis, and better decision-making for your operations. Utility Network migration services will assist you migrating your existing data to the Esri Utility Network efficiently and effectively. By leveraging these services, utilities you can modernize your data management processes, improve operational efficiency, and harness the power of GIS technology to meet the challenges of managing complex utility infrastructure.
(last updated January 2024)
My current level of knowledge in some key platforms and languages
Since March 2023, I have overseen the existing implementation of Esri ArcGIS Enterprise and Esri Utility Network for Electric, Water, and Gas in my role as Project Manager and GIS Solution Architect. Key areas of focus have been working to achieving seamless integration with enterprise systems (SAP EAM, CIS, OMS) and coordinating resources to execute system design changes related to address perfromance issues related to the ESRI Platform and Citrix performance issues.
My expertise extends to providing architectural support for new business capabilities, coordinating system design changes, and facilitating effective communication between different business groups and managing data quality improvement initiatives between corporate systems.
Additionally, I have made significant contributions providing guidance and recommendations to Liberty management during negotiation phases of a Enterprise License Agreement with Esri under terms beneficial and favorable to the organization.
At Barrick Gold, my role was pivotal as the lead technical expert responsible for the ArcGIS Enterprise Platform hosted on Microsoft Azure. I successfully managed the implementation of ArcGIS Enterprise on Amazon Web Services in 2018, followed by a migration to Microsoft Azure in 2021. My responsibilities included the administration and upkeep of the Esri ArcGIS Enterprise Platform, execution of platform upgrades, coordination of system outages and database migration projects.
In addition, I played a central role in maintaining the business relationship between Esri and Barrick Gold, ensuring the continued success of the Enterprise License Agreement. Beyond this, I oversaw the successful deployment of ESRI ArcGIS Collector and ESRI Field Maps, enhancing the efficiency of mineral exploration field mapping and data and management.
My contributions extended beyond this, with development of Microsoft Power BI dashboards, the development of drilling reports, the establishment of FME ETL data processing pipelines integrating data sources including S&P Global Market data, and the performance of various database maintenance tasks.
I took on an integral role in providing essential GIS technical support, creating maps, and delivering GIS training to geologists, all while effectively managing budgets and overseeing technical consultants. Furthermore, I played a key part in training new exploration employees on using Esri ArcGIS for mapping and data analysis, leaving a substantial imprint on Barrick Gold's global exploration efforts.
I made significant contributions during my tenure at Hydro One as a member of the Enterprise Architecture Team with successful completion of the Enterprise GIS Discovery Initiative, which encompassed extensive research, stakeholder engagement, and project formulation activities. My work focused on executing projects outlined in the 2015-2020 GIS Technology Roadmap, which involved evaluating new technologies such as the next generation of Esri Utility Network, a pilot program for Schneider Electric Designer XI, SAP GEF (Geographical Enablement Framework), the consolidation of OMS (Outage Management Systems), ESB-CIM Data Modeling, and Clearion Vegetation Management Solution. Additionally, I assumed project management responsibilities for key initiatives, including the Enterprise GIS Upgrade and the Schneider Electric Designer XI Pilot projects, showcasing his leadership and technical expertise.
My engagement at BCER was marked by my comprehensive expertise in GIS technology and systems administration. I was responsible for the administration, setup, and configuration of Esri ArcGIS Server, ArcGIS Desktop, and Geocortex Essentials, ensuring the seamless operation of these critical technologies. Additionally, I played a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of automated enterprise GIS ETL data processing workflows using Safe Software FME technology.
I provided troubleshooting and support resources for ArcGIS Server and Geocortex Essentials, addressing issues ranging from workflows to reports. I was proactive in the coordination of system outages for maintenance and patching to ensure system reliability.
Furthermore, I optimized the Esri ArcSDE and ArcGIS Server for optimal performance, authored clear and concise GIS system documentation, including system architecture and network diagrams, software configurations, and essential GIS platform maintenance procedures.
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During my engagement with Mountain View County, Alberta, I conducted a comprehensive assessment of their Esri ArcGIS Platform. My work encompassed engaging with stakeholders, documenting the existing state, and proposing a well-defined target state for their Esri GIS Platform. My engagement concluded with a presentation of findings, results, and valuable recommendations to IT leadership and stakeholders, contributing significantly to the County's technological advancement and decision-making process.
My work at Enbridge Gas Distribution focused on the development of a solution to capture high-accuracy GIS/GPS data for natural gas service line assets. In this role, I conducted a 'Proof of Technology' initiative, evaluating various mobile devices and technologies such as Trimble, Leica, and Esri for their suitability. I also played a crucial role in developing a prototype mobile application that showcased the concept and methodology for collecting high-accuracy GNSS/GPS data. This was achieved by leveraging the Esri ArcGIS Mobile SDK and Trimble GeoXH 6000/7000 handheld hardware. Additionally, I authored comprehensive High-Level and Detailed Solution Architecture and Solution Design documents to guide the development team in implementing the project.
My work with the at The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo primarily focused on the implementation and administration of Esri ArcSDE Geodatabase in Amazon Cloud (AWS + RDS - Microsoft SQL Server). I played a crucial role in developing FME ETL processes to support real-time dashboard visualizations using Power BI and also worked on processes to address data quality issues related to reconciling address data from various utilities such as ATCO Electric, ATCO Gas, and Telus, as well as Canada Post. Additionally, I contributed to the integration of FME ETL processes with the municipal permitting system. Additional I showcased my expertise in data reporting and tracking progress by developing Microsoft Power BI and Tableau BI Reports/Dashboards for monitoring and documenting the rebuilding efforts within the municipality.
I played a pivotal role during my time at Devon Energy, where I led numerous initiatives to advance the company's GIS capabilities. I conducted research and testing of new GIS technologies, including 3D modeling and Big Data analytics, within the IT R&D Lab. I authored comprehensive GIS Technology and Capability Road Maps, collaborating closely with business and IT stakeholders to incorporate ongoing innovations. I took charge of designing the GIS IT system architecture and facilitated effective documentation and communication to IT stakeholders regarding GIS system utilization. My leadership extended to providing practical examples and guidelines for developing GIS solutions, primarily utilizing Esri and Geocortex Workflow. Notably, I successfully implemented the on-premise Esri ArcGIS Portal and played a pivotal role in reconciling and integrating corporate Open Source technologies with the Esri GIS Platform. I also ensured seamless interoperability of non-GIS IT platforms with Esri systems, designed GIS spatial data infrastructure, and assessed the impact of enterprise data warehousing and data reservoirs on GIS. My contributions extended to presenting new technologies to senior IT leadership, gaining approval for their integration into Devon Energy's IT environment, including Geocortex Essentials and VoyagerGIS.
Spearheading significant GIS and IT initiatives, I led the upgrade of ArcGIS Server infrastructure, migrating web map services to version 10.1, and reconfigured the Esri JavaScript API-based corporate web mapping application accordingly. Additionally, I managed the upgrade of corporate ArcSDE databases and developed Python scripts to streamline the management of imagery and LiDAR web services. I leadership was particularly notable in the design and development of an IT solution critical for the largest oil and gas asset divestiture in Canadian history, valued at $3.1 billion for Canadian Natural Resources. My work included ETL processes for file organization and identification, along with Python-based tools automating data workflows in ArcGIS for the divestiture.
My engagement with Tesera Systems showcased my expertise in GIS architecture and system integration with the development of an enterprise GIS Architecture and Implementation Plan for the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Alberta. This comprehensive plan not only outlined the GIS framework but also involved intricate system architecture and design that seamlessly integrated with external non-GIS business systems. My work demonstrated a deep understanding of both GIS technology and its harmonious incorporation into broader organizational operations.
(formerly Encana Corporation) My engagement with Ovintiv was marked by my expertise in GIS and database management. I successfully led several key projects, including upgrading ArcSDE databases from Oracle 10/11G to Oracle 11G, migrating from Solaris to Linux, and developing an ArcGIS Desktop Add-in tool for easy map document repointing. I also played a pivotal role in the implementation of Esri Maps for Microsoft SharePoint. I excelled in maintaining the 24x7 availability of ArcSDE databases and ArcGIS Servers, ensuring data integrity and security. I further showcased his automation skills by developing Python scripts for database updates and extraction, and he actively contributed to GIS system architecture and design. I maintained a commitment to end-user support and spatial data governance, including documentation and data licensing agreements. My experience and contributions played a crucial role in advancing Ovintiv's GIS capabilities, ensuring data integrity, and providing valuable support to end-users across the organization.
(formerly Nexen Inc.) My work at Nexen can be characterized by my expertise in managing and optimizing corporate development and testing ArcSDE Databases for the benefit of developers and GIS analysts. I played a pivotal role in maintaining the proprietary corporate ArcSDE Petroleum Spatial Data Model. My contributions extended to streamlining database updates and extractions on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis using Safe Software FME Desktop, FME Server, and Python scripting. I also demonstrated his proficiency in FME Desktop for modeling and loading spatial data to align with industry-specific data models. Additionally, I managed the scheduling and automation of geodatabase replication processes, facilitating the smooth transfer of ArcSDE data between corporate headquarters and satellite offices worldwide using ArcGIS Server Geodata Services. My meticulous attention to detail was evident in his maintenance of geomatic/positional integrity for vector and raster datasets, including handling projections, datums, and transformations. Furthermore, I implemented essential data governance processes and procedures for newly acquired GIS datasets and documented corporate ArcSDE metadata standards to ensure consistency and efficiency in data management. Overall, my work at Nexen showcased my expertise in spatial data management and his commitment to maintaining high data quality standards.
During my time with Hunt Oil showcased my expertise in geospatial data management and support for oil and gas exploration activities. I played a pivotal role in centralizing and organizing large amounts of georeferenced legacy imagery, LiDAR, and gravity data by planning, developing, and implementing a geodatabase raster catalog. Additionally, my contribution extended to developing and documenting efficient GIS mapping workflows for ArcMap users, offering crucial support to ArcGIS users employing Spatial Analyst tools for upstream exploration tasks. Furthermore, I actively contributed to knowledge dissemination within the organization by hosting weekly introductory ArcGIS education seminars, benefiting exploration geologists and engineers in leveraging geospatial tools effectively. Overall, his work at Hunt Oil reflected his commitment to optimizing geospatial data management and empowering teams involved in oil and gas exploration.
My work at Perth Country was marked by significant contributions in the domain of urban planning and GIS. My role involved thorough planning, design, and production of zoning by-law maps for municipalities and townships within the county, showcasing my education in spatial analysis and urban development. Additionally, I played a pivotal role in enhancing the planning department’s mapping capabilities providing users technical ArcGIS support improving their knowledge and utilization of ArcGIS.
Geographic Information Systems
Geographic Information Science
Conference
Conference
Instructor Led Course
Instructor Led Course
Instructor Led Course
Migration Projects
Latest articles
Organizations have embarked on a multi-year initiative aimed at transitioning their current GE Smallworld (GESW) Geographic Information System (GIS) to a contemporary Esri GIS, incorporating the ArcGIS Utility Network. The initial phase of the project primarily revolves around the migration of thier existing GESW data into the Utility Network (UN) and the subsequent configuration of the UN to facilitate subnetwork deployment across the entire electrical distribution system. The upcoming presentation will concentrate on elucidating the tools and methodologies employed in the migration process, which encompasses initial data mapping, data transfer, the establishment of the ArcGIS Utility Network, and the development of UN subnetworks.
Organizations are in talks about their initial steps in migrating the Utility Network, which is aimed at acquiring essential data for long-range planning to bolster SCADA and ADMS systems for improved grid management. Collaborative efforts encompassed evaluating the migration process of thier data to the Utility Network, enabling the company to gain a clearer understanding of the transition's scope, and consequently, enabling them to allocate funds and develop a comprehensive implementation plan. Furthermore, they will delve into reviewing and strategizing integrations and third-party applications.
Being the fourth most populous city in the nation, Houston Water depends on its GIS network data to oversee its water and sewage assets and operational systems. The process of modernization through involvement with the UN has entailed several significant adjustments, including enhancements in the following areas: (1) Software. (2) Accessibility. (3) Logical Framework. (4) Data Procedures. (5) Workflows. We are embarking on a new beginning with immense possibilities. This undertaking has necessitated years of coordination and planning involving numerous individuals and teams. Realizing the system's full potential will require the adaptability, expertise, and insight of dedicated key stakeholders working collaboratively.
Liberty Utilities embarked on a multi-year transformation effort aimed at providing attractive customer-focused products and services. A crucial aspect of its transformation involveed the integration and transfer of their on-premises GIS systems from all subsidiary operating companies to the latest Utility Network model by Esri, hosted on the Microsoft Azure cloud platform. The presentation will showcase the essential components of the successful implementation, in collaboration with its business partner Cyient. It will cover both the best practices employed and the obstacles encountered, particularly those arising from the challenges posed by the pandemic when striving to achieve critical business acceptance milestones.
This article we will delve into the analysis of both equilibrium and non-equilibrium electrical systems within the utility network. Our exploration will encompass various categories of assets and their respective characteristics.
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