Utilities

Panorama helps the utilities sector take control of ERP transformation with a structured, unbiased approach tailored to the complexities of the utility sector. Whether replacing aging systems, integrating critical functions, or preparing for a cloud-based, analytics-ready future, we guide electric cooperatives, publicly owned utilities, and water and sanitation districts through every stage of their ERP journey.

From upfront needs assessment and process mapping to vendor selection and implementation oversight, our team brings deep public sector expertise, proven methodologies, and a focus on long-term value—ensuring our clients make informed decisions that lead to lasting operational improvements.

Helping Utilities Build Future-Ready Operations

Utilities are often bound to long-standing legacy systems. Many utilities are using systems, like Infor Lawson, AS400-based custom tools, HTE/Naviline, or Incode, that are sunsetting or no longer meet industry standards.

Legacy system ties run deep due to the critical nature of utility services, long depreciation cycles for IT assets, and risk-averse cultures.

As vendors sunset legacy platforms, public utilities and water districts must modernize while minimizing service disruption.

This requires an ERP selection process that accounts for:

 

  • Intense regulatory, financial, and compliance requirements
  • Complex rate structures, metering data, seasonal fluctuations, and high-volume customer transactions
  • Vast physical infrastructures, including power lines, substations, water treatment plants, underground pipes, and more
  • Extended planning horizons for infrastructure investment, resource planning, and demand forecasting

Why Utilities Are Replacing Legacy Systems

Aging, Unsupported Platforms

Many utilities are using systems like Infor Lawson, AS400-based custom tools, HTE/Naviline, or Incode that are sunsetting or no longer meet industry standards. These systems lack vendor support, struggle to meet regulatory demands, and pose increasing security risks.

Disjointed Applications and Manual Workarounds

Utility operations often rely on multiple standalone systems for functions like billing, customer information, financials, work orders, asset management, and payroll. The lack of integration leads to double entry, errors, and disconnected reporting that slows operations and burdens staff.

Limited Data Access and Reporting

Existing systems often lack real-time dashboards, self-service reporting, and predictive modeling tools. This limits utilities’ ability to forecast demand, optimize budgeting, and proactively manage infrastructure and resources (e.g., using predictive analytics to forecast water usage).

Inflexibility and Scalability Constraints

Legacy systems are typically on-premise, hard to update, and difficult to scale. As utility organizations grow or adapt to new regulations, service models, and customer needs, outdated platforms cannot keep pace.

Inefficient Processes and Rising Costs

Manual processes and paper-based approvals lead to inefficiencies that increase operational costs and reduce service delivery speed. Utilities need modern tools to streamline processes and improve productivity.

Pressure to Embrace Cloud and Modern Delivery Models

Today’s ERP landscape is moving toward cloud-native, mobile-accessible platforms with modular capabilities and robust security. Utilities are seeking these benefits to support remote work, simplify upgrades, and improve user experience across departments.

Utilities Software Consulting

Panorama Government Solutions specializes in helping utilities navigate system replacement and modernization efforts—ensuring they not only meet current operational needs but also position themselves for data-driven decision-making, AI-driven forecasting, and long-term resilience.

We partner with utilities through every stage of ERP transformation—from discovery and gap analysis to vendor selection and implementation support. Our ERP services are built to address the needs utilities express in their RFPs, including:

erp services for water utilities
  • Identifying pain points and functional gaps in the current ERP environment
  • Mapping future-state processes that eliminate inefficiencies and manual effort
  • Building tailored ERP requirements focused on utility billing, customer management, fund accounting, work order integration, and more
  • Facilitating vendor-neutral utilities software selection that aligns with current and future needs
  • Preparing organizations for implementation with change management and AI readiness strategies
  • Integrating with specialized systems, such as Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) systems, Customer Information Systems (CIS), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), work order and asset tracking tools, and utility billing platforms

Guiding Utilities Toward a Modern, Predictive Future

Panorama helps utilities not just replace their ERP—but reimagine how their technology can drive strategic outcomes. We bring a deep understanding of water districts and public utility operations, the ability to translate technical goals into business value, and a structured methodology that ensures transparency and long-term success.

Success Stories

ERP Selection for The Nevada Irrigation District

special-district-erp-selection

Panorama assisted in the replacement of the client’s existing systems with a proven, commercial-off-the-shelf ERP system. The client undertook this initiative to replace aging systems, gain efficiencies and update existing processes.