Efficiently processing information saves time and money. Measurable benefits include cost savings from reduced labor due to effort consolidation, improved contractor team coordination, better cost accounting, and reduced outside consulting costs. Indirect benefits are more difficult to quantify, but include those benefits realized from a reduction in risk and potential liability.

In the computer age, it is surprising how much time is spent entering, re-entering, and translating the same data into different software applications or rummaging around for an old spreadsheet. When the project includes a team of contractors, the effort required to manage data can be daunting, but when facilities integrate their existing data management software with a program-wide database and Internet data distribution system, these problems and other inefficiencies in data-related program workflow are eliminated.

A major U.S. aircraft manufacturer is conducting a Corrective Action Program (CAP) under RCRA for its facilities in the Northeast. They needed to ensure that data and information developed through this program would (1) withstand intense scientific scrutiny, (2) be available with rapid turn-around to meet regulatory reporting requirements, (3) be available to individuals at various locations for analysis and synthesis, and (4) be fully utilized and integrated into program planning decisions.

To help the company manage the volume of environmental data generated in the CAP, Battelle deployed its Environmental Management Information System (eMIS), a Web-based, program-wide data repository and distribution system. To close the loop, Battelle implemented staff training, standard operating procedures, and contractor data protocols.

Systems deployed include bar-coded sample tracking products developed by Battelle that log data in the field, then track and document custody of samples. Using Battelle-developed systems, automated data uploading from subcontractor firms and labs saves time, prevents errors, and pushes back error correction to the data source (i.e., the labs) where error correction is more appropriately handled. The central data repository is a Battelle designed and built Oracle central database system that provides centralized data management in one data model including all historical, current, and prospective data types. Finally, Battelle deployed the core of its eMIS, a scalable, Internet-based middleware applications suite that provides Web-based access directly to the central database. The design allows CAP team members to access the latest data and data products using only a Web browser. Real-time access to the central database via the Internet provides the backbone for rapid information flow throughout the program.

Cost efficiencies result from effort consolidation, reduced data turn-around times, improved program coordination, and reduced outside consulting costs. Indirect benefits include early recognition of potential non-compliance situations, improved project team accountability, improved relations with government agencies and the community. By implementing an environmental management information system, including program-wide database and Internet data distribution, real bottom line benefits are realized.

For more information, please contact Tom Gulbransen at (631) 277-6300, gulbran@battelle.org.