Fall, 1999

Applied Technologies In Environmental Consulting: Part I

 Technology has integrated its way into every aspect of society. Nearly every business now has, or is planning, a Web site such as the one LBG maintains at www.lbgweb.com. First graders surf the internet. E-mail has enabled instantaneous communication with anybody, anywhere. It seems as though a new remediation technology is announced every week. Not so long ago consultants only provided their clients with bulky paper reports, ground water was remediated by pump-and-treat, and impacted soils were addressed by dig-and-haul. How the world has changed!

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOUR COMPANY?
Today, quality hydrogeological and environmental engineering consultants provide their clients with vastly improved, cost-effective services through technology. Electronic deliverables, digital computer databases, project-specific Web sites, 3-D visualization techniques, and innovative engineering solutions to complex, environmental issues are just a few examples. If applied properly, these technological tools reduce project costs, speed up site closure, and improve communications.

ELECTRONIC PROPOSALS AND REPORTING
Many of LBG's clients now prefer to receive project communications and reports in electronic format. This method has made communication faster and more cost-effective. LBG currently provides proposals, communications, and reports for numerous clients in electronic format by either utilizing the World Wide Web and Internet or by writing to a Compact Disc (CD). The storage capacity of the Web and CDs allows for direct electronic links to pertinent information, such as State and Federal Regulations, historical documents, equipment specifications, or other information or data that is too bulky and cumbersome to include in a traditional paper report. This new technology also allows for the inclusion of rich graphics such as digital aerial photos, plume animation sequences, and large AutoCad drawings. Electronic reporting brings your project to life and fully communicates the significance of your results to others.

CLIENT WEB PAGES
LBG has recently introduced client Web pages to the LBG home Web site. Client Web pages allow the client access to a secure, password protected area of LBG's Web page to view site information, reports, and updates. Everything from digital photos to reports, tables, figures and analytical data can be stored on the secure site.

The page can also be set up to allow access to a file review area where clients can review draft reports or proposals and make comments and suggestions, as needed.

The lbgweb.com Secure File Area is protected by Microsoft Secure Socket Layer (SSLTM) technology. This provides encryption of the data, so that it cannot by accessed by anyone without a confidential password. This same technology is used by financial institutions to protect transactions over the Web.

SUMMARY
The next issue of Short Notes, "Applied Technologies In Environmental Consulting: Part II," will detail Geographic Information System (GIS) databases and 3-D Visualization technologies and how your project might benefit from them.

For over 55 years, Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc. has provided state of the art consulting services to our clients. The bulk of our work is repeat business from customers who have benefited from the value added services we provide. If you would like more information on how LBG can add value to your ground-water or environmental projects, or if you believe that a Web site would benefit your project, please contact your local LBG office for assistance.

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This newsletter is a service for clients and friends of LBG. The objective is to provide timely and useful information about ground-water and environmental issues. If you have a suggestion for a newsletter topic, please call your local LBG office, or contact Rich Townsend at (651) 490-1405 (e-mail address - rtowns@LBGMN.com).