METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MANAGING LOCATE AND/OR MARKING OPERATIONS

A holistic approach to management and oversight of locate and marking operations. Requests to perform such operations are assessed to allocate resources. In some examples, technicians are dispatched with process guides to facilitate performance. Various information regarding the performance of locate operations and their environs is acquired via improved intelligent instrumentation employed by technicians). A quality of operations (e.g., completeness, accuracy, efficiency) is assessed, corrective actions may be taken in essentially real-time as necessary, and information regarding operations and their quality assessments is archived for auditing purposes. Requesting parties are apprised of the status of ongoing operations, and given confirmation that operations have been performed and are completed. Requesting parties and/or other interested parties (e.g., excavators, facility owners, locate contractors, municipalities, regulators, auditors, damage investigators, insurance companies, etc.) also may be provided with detailed information regarding the performance of operations and quality assessment of same.