Utilities depend on accurate maps to get field work done right the first time. Yet too often, crews are forced to toggle between a GIS portal and their mobile workforce software just to see where assets are located. That slows everyone down.
With ServiceLink, you don’t have to choose. Esri GIS integration brings your maps and assets directly into dispatch and field workflows. This post outlines what you get with Basic Esri Integration, why it’s worth enabling now, and what additional capabilities are available with Advanced Esri Integration.
(Note: ServiceLink integrates with Esri by default. If your utility uses another GIS provider, our team can explore alternative integration options).
Why Esri GIS Integration Matters for Utilities
- Reduce context switching – crews and dispatchers work in one system, not two
- Fewer errors – asset details appear directly within orders, minimizing manual lookups
- Better field adoption – new hires learn one platform, not multiple tools
- Stronger data visibility – field and office teams stay aligned with the same asset view
Embedding maps directly into ServiceLink means field staff see assets where they work, not in a separate window.
What You Get with Basic Esri Integration
Basic ESRI integration is included with ServiceLink and provides:
- Map visibility in ServiceLink – view Esri layers inside dispatch and mobile views
- Asset identification – click assets (hydrants, valves, meters, etc.) to see core details
- Layer controls – toggle layers on/off to keep screens clear and responsive
- Zoom and filtering – move from system-wide views down to job-specific assets
This setup is the recommended starting point for any utility.
Best Practices for Rolling Out Basic Esri Layers
- Start small – enable only the 2-3 layers crews use daily
- Align layers to workflows – ensure assets are relevant to the work being performed
- Keep it simple – surface only key details to avoid clutter
- Pilot first – test with one crew or district before scaling
- Gather feedback early – refine based on how crews actually use it
What’s Possible with Advanced Esri Integration
For utilities looking to go further, Advanced Esri Integration is available as an add-on. This includes:
- Create service orders from the map – generate work directly from selected assets
- Offline map access – view and interact with GIS data in the field without connectivity
Advanced integration enhances how teams interact with GIS by making it more actionable within daily workflows.
Next Steps
- Enable Basic Esri Integration – a quick win that improves visibility and reduces inefficiencies
- Evaluate Advanced capabilities – if creating work from GIS or offline access is a priority
- Connect with our team – we’ll help you determine the right approach based on your setup
