The Best in the Biz – April 2024 – [EnergyBiz Network Community Manager Digest]

Posted By: EN Todayon: April 04, 2024In: General Energy News

Thank you for checking out the EnergyBiz Network Community Manager digest. This piece compiles important articles that concern different elements of energy commerce, such as customer care and utility management. The articles referred to in this piece are just a small smattering of the content posted on Energy Central, so make sure to check the rest of the site.

Get to Know Your Community Members – This Month’s Member Spotlight

Spotlight: Jessica Domer

What sets Energy Central apart from other online industry outlets is the true community-level feel. To highlight that aspect, this spot each month will feature a quick profile of one of your fellow Community Members for you to get to know and inspire you to reach out to them: leave a comment on their recent Energy Central content, follow their profile, and build a new connection in the industry!

Name and Title: Jessica Domer, Consultant at Pyrovio

Topics of Focus: Customer Care, Asset Management, Communications

Recent Energy Central Contributions of Note:

Top Content This Month

AMI: Be “Smart” About Advanced Meter Communications by John Egan

The article explores the ongoing relevance of advanced digital meters in the utility sector, highlighting recent deployments and investigations. It discusses the need for effective communication strategies amidst public skepticism, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the persuadable majority rather than attempting to sway conspiracy theorists.

“I thought advanced, two-way, digital meters was a “been there, done that” thing for utilities until I caught up with a friend and colleague late last year at the annual Customer Connections Conference, sponsored by the American Public Power Association. Her utility was deploying smart meters for gas and electric service.”

Read the full article and leave a comment or question for the author here

US Laws and Mandates failing us in for fast development in technology by Sergej Marojevic

The article delves into the challenges facing technological advancement in the United States, particularly focusing on the impact of laws, regulations, and mandates. It examines how regulatory hurdles, complexities in securing grants, and the legislative landscape hinder innovation and rapid development. The discussion covers various aspects, including the need for a more cohesive framework for data protection laws, the difficulties small businesses face in accessing grants, and the systemic issues within the regulatory and legislative frameworks that impede technological progress.

“The challenges to technological advancement in the United States indeed encompass a broad spectrum of issues. Regulatory hurdles, the complexity of securing grants, and the legislative landscape collectively create an ecosystem that, while designed to ensure security and privacy, also poses significant barriers to innovation and rapid development.”

Read the full article and leave a comment or question for the author here

Betrayed by Kevin Anderson

The article discusses the fallout from widespread layoffs and organizational changes, emphasizing the sense of betrayal among employees. Kevin Anderson offers three strategies for leaders to mitigate this impact: addressing detachment among survivors, supporting overwhelmed middle managers, and integrating new hires amid uncertainty. He stresses the importance of prioritizing empathy, transparency, and meaningful action to rebuild trust and foster resilience within the organization.

“Amidst the unsettling backdrop of widespread job losses, bankruptcies, and economic uncertainty, a palpable sense of betrayal pervades the workforce. For many employees, being let go from their jobs feels like a personal affront—a questioning of their loyalty, dedication, and worth.”

Read the full article and leave a comment or question for the author here

Recent Q&A in the Community

Q: What companies in the US offer quality 3rd party asset management services?

Read submitted answers and or add your own!

Q: What are utilities doing to help keep customers safe on the internet and web-tied digital software as it pertains to cybersecurity, preventing scammers, etc.? [Safer Internet Day]

Read submitted answers and or add your own!

Q: Have you published an energy-related book that our utility audience should read? Or do you have recommendations of the last industry relevant book you’ve read? [Read Across America Week]

Read submitted answers and or add your own!