The Situation

A U.S. utility, preparing for the next phase of its grid modernization journey, faced the intricate challenge of advancing its distribution management capabilities. The organization needed to strengthen its network model to support a new wave of ADMS applications, but existing processes were fragmented, and requirements were not fully aligned with operational realities. With formal testing cycles on the horizon—including Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), User Acceptance Testing (UAT), and cutover—the utility had to ensure its network model was robust, accurate, and ready for rigorous evaluation, all while maintaining uninterrupted daily operations. 

This transformation required more than technical upgrades. The utility needed clear governance, seamless coordination across IT, Data Governance, model managers, and control room teams, and dedicated stewardship to minimize risk and keep vendor-driven timelines on track. The stakes were high: success depended on unifying processes, validating requirements, and preparing the organization for a smooth transition to ADMS capabilities. 

Mosaic Provides a Solution

To help the utility overcome the challenges of fragmented processes, evolving requirements, and the need for rigorous testing and coordination, senior advisory expertise was brought in to guide the network model workstream within the ADMS modernization program. This leadership provided both strategic direction and practical support, ensuring that operational improvements were implemented, requirements were validated and expanded, and the network model was fully prepared for every phase of formal testing—all while maintaining day-to-day stability and minimizing risk. 

Collaboration was at the heart of the approach, with close coordination across IT, Data Governance, model managers, and control room teams. The engagement emphasized translating business and application needs into actionable requirements, supporting troubleshooting efforts, and maintaining comprehensive documentation to keep all stakeholders aligned and informed. Throughout the project, senior advisors leveraged deep experience in advanced applications and ADMS operations to deliver best practices, transparent project controls, and ongoing status updates. 

Key deliverables:

• Streamlined and optimized network model business processes to enhance operational performance and reduce risk. 

• Supported planning, documenting, implementing and executing Cutover tasks/steps related to Network Model domain. 

• Conducted strategic analysis to validate and optimize the network model build, representation, validation and maintenance. 

• Managed day-to-day network model activities, coordinated planning and testing, and ensured readiness for all formal testing phases (FAT, SAT, UAT, and cutover). 

• Supported troubleshooting and defect tracking, working closely with vendors and internal teams to resolve issues efficiently. 

• Fostered collaboration among project teams and stakeholders, translating business objectives into clear, actionable use cases. 

• Applied senior advisory expertise to guide strategic decisions, maintain project transparency, and support effective tracking and reporting.