TAS have successfully implemented upgrades to a number of clients’ main control room / operations centres. These upgrades have been carefully designed to provide improved state-of-the-art, ‘user-friendly’ interfaces to automation, instrumentation and control systems, situated in suitably controlled environments.

TAS approach this work in a phased manner initially, by determining systems and user requirements. This is facilitated through site survey, development planning and user questionnaires. Information is then collated into a 'Client Brief' or 'User Requirement' high level document. The next stage is to develop this high level specification into a detailed design document that can be used to implement the control room build or modifications.

STAGE 1 – Control Room User Requirements

1. Confirm and validate modifications in line with ergonomic and human-centred design processes.
2. Design an appropriate user questionnaire to establish expectations and requirements. This will also bring users into the change cycle and instil a level of ownership.
3. Establish systems currently used, upgrades required and final room content.
4. Check status of existing systems through limited 'first pass' surveys
5. Check electrical distribution facilities and study options to refit power systems.
6. Meet and discuss logistical requirements and change-over plans with operational management.
7. Consolidate questionnaire and survey data into ‘Client Brief’. This will be the user specification for all aspects of the new control room.

STAGE 2 – M & E Specification, Project Management, CDM

1. Prepare Mechanical and Electrical specifications to allow contractor tender and selection.
2. Prepare detailed layout plans (final and any interim arrangements may be required).
3. Coordinate and manage change out plan.
4. CDM Co-ordinator of the project.