D8Acapture FAQ

Everything You Need to Know

Introduction to D8Acapture

What is D8Acapture, and how can it benefit my team?

D8Acapture is a powerful and user-friendly mobile application designed to streamline the process of collecting and managing data related to utility poles. It is specifically tailored for engineers, permit managers, and field teams involved in tasks such as engineering analysis, permitting, make-ready, and pole loading analysis. The app enables users to record accurate location information, capture photos, and gather essential property details for utility poles, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of utility pole management processes.

Getting Started & Implementation

How easy is it to get my team up and running with D8Acapture?

Getting started is quick and easy. Simply download the app from the App Store and install it on your devices. The process is similar to installing any other app.

How much training is required to get my team proficient?

D8Acapture is intuitive to learn. Most teams become proficient with a quick 30-minute online training session.

What devices do I need to use D8Acapture?

D8Acapture works on your existing iOS devices, including iPhones and iPads. There’s no need to invest in new, specialized hardware.

How quickly can we start seeing results with D8Acapture?

You can start capturing and managing data immediately after installation. Its user-friendly design and fast installation mean your team can be productive from day one.

Team Collaboration & Accessibility

What if we have team members in different locations?

D8Acapture enables seamless collaboration. Team members can access and update project data in real-time on their devices, ensuring everyone has the latest information, regardless of location.

Can managers and engineers access field data instantly?

Yes, D8Acapture provides instant remote access to field data. This real-time visibility enables engineers and managers to stay informed and make timely decisions.

Purchasing & Pricing

What is your pricing structure, and are there any long-term contracts?

Our pricing is designed to be simple and transparent, with pay-as-you-go options. We offer flexible plans to suit your needs, and there are no long-term contracts required.

Do you offer any volume discounts for larger deployments?

Yes, we offer flexible pricing options and volume discounts to accommodate various team sizes. Please contact our sales team to discuss your specific needs and get a tailored quote.

Technical Specifications

What are the specific iPhone and iPad versions compatible with D8Acapture?

D8Acapture is designed to be compatible with a wide range of recent iOS versions and leverages ARKit for its augmented reality features. For optimal performance and full ARKit functionality, we recommend using iPhone 11 or newer, or any iPad running iOS 18 or later. Please check the App Store listing for the most up-to-date compatibility details.

General Information

What is D8Acapture?

What platforms is the app available on?

Currently, D8Acapture is available exclusively on the iOS platform. You can download and install the app from the App Store on your iOS devices, such as iPhones and iPads. Our focus is on delivering a high-quality experience for iOS users, ensuring that you can efficiently capture, manage, and analyze utility pole data using your preferred Apple devices. While the app is currently available on iOS, stay tuned for updates or expansions to other platforms in the future.

Getting Started

How do I install the app on my iOS device?

Installing D8Acapture on your iOS device is a straightforward process:

Visit the App Store: Open the App Store on your iOS device.
Search for the App: In the search bar, type “D8Acapture” and press Enter.
Locate the App: Look for our app in the search results. It should have our distinctive logo.
Download and Install: Tap the “Download” or “Get” button next to the app’s name. You might need to confirm your Apple ID password or use Touch ID/Face ID.
Wait for Installation: Once the app is downloaded, its icon will appear on your home screen
Open the App: Tap the app icon to open it. You will be prompted to log in or create an account if it’s your first time using the app.

Note: Make sure you have a stable internet connection while downloading the app. The installation process might take a few moments depending on your internet speed. That’s it! You’re now ready to start using D8Acapture to efficiently capture and manage utility pole data on your iOS device. If you encounter any issues during installation, feel free to refer to our troubleshooting guide or contact our support team for assistance.

Can I use the app on multiple devices?

Absolutely! D8Acapture is designed with flexibility in mind. You can use the same account across multiple iOS devices, allowing you to seamlessly switch between devices without losing your data. Here’s how:

Install on Additional Devices: Simply download and install the app from the App Store on any iOS device you want to use.
Sign In: When you launch the app on a new device, sign in using the same account credentials you used to set up your original account.
Sync Your Data: Your data will automatically synchronize across all devices connected to the same account. This means you can start collecting data on one device and continue on another without missing a beat

Whether you’re in the field, at the office, or on the go, D8Acapture provides a seamless multi-device experience, ensuring that your data is accessible whenever and wherever you need it.

Data Collection

How do I record the location of a utility pole accurately?

Ensuring precise location data for utility poles is essential, and our app provides a user-friendly method to achieve just that:

Utilize GPS: When you begin recording data for a utility pole, the app will utilize your device’s GPS capabilities to pinpoint your current position.
Google Satellite View: To refine the location further, you can switch to Google Satellite View within the app. This view offers a clear and detailed aerial perspective.
Move the Pin: On Google Satellite View, you’ll see a pin representing the utility pole’s current location. You have the option to move this pin by tapping and dragging the map until the pin is at the desired spot on the map.
Fine-Tune Positioning: As you move the pin, the map will provide visual feedback, helping you align the pin accurately with the pole’s actual position.
Confirm and Save: Once you’re satisfied with the pin’s placement, simply confirm the location. The app will save this accurate location data along with the rest of your utility pole information.

By combining GPS functionality with Google Satellite View and interactive pin movement, our app empowers you to capture utility pole locations with remarkable accuracy, ensuring your field data is reliable and dependable for engineering, analysis, and reporting needs.

What do the statuses of a pole signify?

In the Utility Pole Field Data App, the status of a pole is a crucial indicator of its progress and the level of data completeness. Here’s what each status signifies:

New: When a pole is in the “New” status, it means that the pole has been added to the project with essential information, such as a valid Pole ID and Coordinates. However, at this stage, no measure photos have been taken for the pole.
Measured: A pole’s status is updated to “Measured” when measure photos have been taken for that specific pole. This marks the initial phase of data collection.
Processed: The “Processed” status indicates that a user has further edited at least one of the measure photos to update the base and has added at least one attachment point. This status signifies a more advanced level of data refinement for the pole.

Monitoring the status of each pole within your project allows you to easily track its data completeness and progress, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the state of your utility pole data.

Can I customize the data fields to match my specific needs?

Absolutely! We understand that every company and project may have unique data requirements. In our upcoming release, we’re introducing a feature that puts you in control:

Custom Forms by Administrators: With the new release, administrators from each company can create custom data collection forms tailored to their projects’ exact needs. These forms can be easily designed within the app’s admin panel.
Tailored Data Fields: When you’re assigned a project, the app will present you with a data collection form specifically designed for that project. This form will include data fields that match the project requirements.
Flexible Input: You can fill out these custom forms using various input types, such as text boxes, dropdowns, checkboxes, and more. This flexibility ensures you can accurately capture the specific data your project demands.
Streamlined Workflow: No more sifting through irrelevant fields. Our customizable forms streamline the data collection process, allowing you to focus on gathering the information that truly matters.
Project-Based Customization: As you switch between projects, the app will seamlessly adapt to the corresponding custom form, ensuring consistency and accuracy throughout your work.

We’re excited to offer this new level of customization, empowering you to capture data precisely as required by your projects. Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all forms – our app adapts to your needs, enhancing your efficiency and data accuracy in every field project. Stay tuned for this exciting update!

Photo Documentation

How can I capture and attach photos of utility poles?

Capturing photos within our app’s data capture forms is simple and intuitive. Whether you’re documenting pole information, the surrounding environment, or measurements, our app provides a seamless process:

Access the Data Capture Form: When you’re filling out a data capture form for a specific utility pole or project, locate the field where you want to attach a photo.
Click the Photo Icon: Within the data field, you’ll find a photo icon. Clicking on this icon will activate your phone’s camera.
Capture the Photo: The camera interface will open, allowing you to frame and capture the desired photo. You can take multiple photos if needed.
Review and Confirm: After capturing the photo, you’ll have the option to review it. If you’re satisfied, confirm your choice to attach the photo to the corresponding data field.
Repeat as Needed: You can repeat this process for any other photo-related fields within the form. This allows you to comprehensively document various aspects of the utility pole and its surroundings.

By utilizing the camera icon within the data capture form, you ensure that each unique photo is associated with the relevant information you’re recording. This feature facilitates accurate visual documentation, making it easy to reference and analyze the captured data during engineering, permitting, analysis, and other project stages.

Is there a limit to the number of photos I can attach to each pole?

No, there are no limits to the number of photos you can attach to each utility pole within our app. We understand the importance of thorough documentation, and our app empowers you to capture as many photos as needed to accurately represent the pole and its surroundings:

Comprehensive Visual Records: Feel free to take multiple photos from various angles and perspectives. This comprehensive visual documentation enhances the clarity and precision of your records.
Detailed Analysis: Having the flexibility to attach numerous photos ensures that you capture every detail relevant to your engineering, analysis, and reporting tasks.
Unrestricted Data Collection: Our app is designed to accommodate your workflow without imposing arbitrary limits. Your ability to capture extensive photo documentation remains unrestricted.

Whether you’re capturing pole information, assessing conditions, or measuring for analysis, our app’s limitless photo attachment feature empowers you to create thorough and accurate records for every utility pole. This level of detail can be invaluable during project execution and decision-making processes.

Are the photos stored securely?

We take data security seriously, and that includes your photos. As part of our commitment to safeguarding your information, we’ve implemented a robust storage solution:

Amazon S3 Encryption: All photos captured within our app are securely stored using Amazon S3, a highly reliable and trusted cloud storage service.
Data Encryption: Your photos are encrypted during storage, meaning that they are protected by advanced encryption techniques. This ensures that even in the unlikely event of unauthorized access, the data remains unreadable.
Amazon’s Proven Security Measures: Amazon S3 is renowned for its stringent security protocols, including access controls, data integrity checks, and comprehensive compliance certifications.
Peace of Mind: With Amazon S3’s strong encryption and security measures, you can trust that your photo data is handled with the utmost care and diligence.

Rest assured that we prioritize your privacy and data security, and our partnership with Amazon S3 underscores our commitment to providing a secure environment for your valuable information. Your photos remain confidential and well-protected within our app.

Collaboration and Syncing

What are the User Roles in D8Acapture?

D8Acapture uses role-based access controls to ensure each team member has the right level of access. Each role aligns with specific responsibilities across leadership, engineering, and field operations. These permissions help teams collaborate efficiently while maintaining secure access boundaries.

Attribute

Owner

Admin

Engineer

Field User / Reporter

Key Permissions

All Admin permissions; Manage billing and credits; Full organizational control

Manage users and roles; Configure integrations; Create, edit, and delete projects; Import and export data

Review and annotate poles; Export to O-Calc or SpidaCalc; Provide feedback

Capture pole data; Take photos and notes; Verify addresses; Collect non-pole points; Sync when online

Project Access

All projects

Assigned projects only

Platform Access

Web and Mobile

Web only

Mobile only

Best For

Leadership, organization owners

Project managers, system administrators

Design and analysis teams

Field crews, survey teams

Quick Takeaways

Everything Admins can do, plus billing and subscriptions

Full system and project management

Analysis and exports, limited to assigned projects

Data capture only, limited to assigned projects

What can Owners do in D8Acapture?

Who they are:
Organization leaders with full platform and billing control.

What they can do:
- All Admin permissions
- Access the billing screen to manage credits and subscriptions
- Add or remove Admins and control organizational settings

Limitations:
None — full platform control.

Best for:
Leadership with both financial and technical oversight.

What can Admins do in D8Acapture?

Who they are:
Project managers and system administrators responsible for workflows.

What they can do:
- Manage users, roles, and permissions
- Configure integrations (ArcGIS, Render Networks, O-Calc, SpidaCalc)
- Create, edit, and delete projects
- Import .lccfg files and define attachment types
- Access all project data

Limitations:
Cannot access billing or subscription settings.

Best for:
Technical leads or managers overseeing setup and organization.

What can Engineers do in D8Acapture?

Who they are:
Technical users focused on design, analysis, and data review.

What they can do:
- Review pole data, attachments, spans, and underground pathing
- Annotate poles using company-defined attachment types
- Export project data to O-Calc or SpidaCalc for analysis
- Provide feedback on data quality to field teams

Limitations:
Access limited to assigned projects; web-only use.

Best for:
Utility engineers, consultants, and design teams.

What can Field Users or Reporters do in D8Acapture?

Who they are:
Field teams and data collectors using the mobile app.

What they can do:
- Capture pole measurements with ARKit and LiDAR
- Take geotagged photos and notes
- Verify addresses and collect non-pole points
- Sync data when online

Limitations:
Mobile app only; cannot access web dashboards; limited to assigned projects.

Best for:
Field crews and contractors collecting raw data.

How can multiple team members collaborate on the same project?

Collaboration lies at the heart of our app’s design, facilitating efficient teamwork and streamlined project execution:

Shared Access: All team members involved in a project can be given access to the project. By logging in through their own credentials they will be able to access D8Acapture on their respective devices.
Real-Time Syncing: As team members update data, capture photos, or make changes, the app synchronizes these updates in real time across all devices. This ensures everyone is working with the latest information.
Seamless Updates: Collaborators can instantly see modifications made by others, eliminating the need for manual data sharing or updates. This real-time approach reduces errors and enhances project accuracy.
Shared Project Forms: With our upcoming release, administrators will be able to create custom data collection forms tailored to the project’s needs. All team members working on the same project will have access to these shared forms, ensuring consistency and focused data gathering.
Efficient Communication: The real-time collaboration features foster clear communication among team members, as everyone is aligned with the most current project information.

By utilizing the app’s real-time syncing capabilities, you and your team can seamlessly collaborate on the same project, irrespective of your physical locations. This efficient collaboration not only enhances productivity but also promotes accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting for your utility pole management tasks.

Is data synchronized in real-time across devices?

Data synchronization is a cornerstone of our app’s functionality, ensuring seamless collaboration and real-time updates across your devices:

Real-Time Synchronization: As long as there is a data connection, D8Acapture synchronizes your data in real time. This means that any changes you make on one device are instantly reflected on all other devices with access to the data.
Effortless Collaboration: Whether you’re in the field, at the office, or on the go, you can confidently access the most up-to-date information. This level of synchronization fosters efficient teamwork and accurate decision-making.
Consistent Experience: When you switch devices, you’ll find your data, forms, photos, and updates exactly as you left them. This consistency ensures a smooth workflow regardless of the device you’re using.
Data Integrity: Our synchronization process is designed to maintain data integrity, ensuring that information is accurately transferred and reflected across all connected devices.

Stay connected and up to date with the power of real-time synchronization. This feature empowers you to work seamlessly, collaborate effectively, and access accurate utility pole data whenever and wherever you need it.

What happens if there's a loss of internet connectivity?

Our app is designed to provide you with a seamless experience, even in scenarios where internet connectivity is temporarily disrupted. Here’s how it works:

Offline Data Modification: If you experience a loss of internet connectivity, rest assured that you can continue working on existing utility pole data records. You have the ability to modify existing data, add new information, and capture new pole data.
Offline Data Capture: While offline, you can capture new utility pole data and associated information, providing you with the flexibility to continue your work even without an active internet connection.
Limitations on Placing New Pole Locations: Placing new pole locations on the map requires internet connectivity to access the map data. This feature is temporarily disabled while offline, as it relies on real-time map viewing.
Automatic Sync Upon Reconnection: Once your device regains internet connectivity, any modifications or new data captured while offline will automatically sync up with our servers. This ensures that your work remains consistent and up to date across all devices.
Optimal Workflow Resumption: This offline functionality is designed to allow you to seamlessly continue your work without disruptions, ultimately enhancing your productivity and workflow continuity.

In situations where an internet connection is unavailable, our app allows you to work with existing data, capture new information, and make necessary modifications. You can trust that once your connection is restored, all your data will be synchronized to ensure accurate and up-to-date records.

Why do I see a “Coming Soon” placeholder instead of my pole photo?

How does data sync works when creating a pole in the app:
When you create a new pole using the app, here’s how the data sync process works, step by step. This explanation also covers what happens when a pole already exists and how certain steps may be skipped.

1. Pole Creation and Text Data Sync

A new pole object is created and immediately synced to the server.
The pole’s text-based metadata (e.g., ID, location, notes) is uploaded as part of this sync.

2. Photo Upload Process

Any photos taken are added to the upload queue and sent to the server.
Photo upload timing can vary depending on network conditions.
After each photo reaches the server, a thumbnail generation process begins.

3. Thumbnail Generation

Once a thumbnail is created, it replaces the “coming soon” placeholder image you might see in the interface.
This step can lag behind the photo upload depending on processing time.

Why You May See a ‘Coming Soon’ Placeholder

We quickly send metadata indicating that a photo has been taken.
However, the actual photo upload and thumbnail generation may take a few moments.
Occasionally, the full-size image becomes available on the web before the thumbnail is ready.

Why aren’t my photos syncing over cellular data?

How photo uploads work over cellular connections:

When you capture photos with D8Acapture, the app uploads high-resolution images, which can be several megabytes each. These uploads can occur over both Wi-Fi and cellular data, but the speed and reliability of syncing depend heavily on your mobile signal quality.

1. Cellular Signal and Upload Performance

If your device has a weak or unstable signal (for example, only one or two bars of LTE), upload speeds may be too slow to reliably transfer large files. In these cases, uploads may pause, take longer than expected, or fail until a stronger connection is available.

2. Improving Sync Reliability

To help your photos sync more smoothly:

Try to stay in areas with a strong, consistent data signal.
Use Wi-Fi whenever possible for faster and more reliable uploads.
Keep the app open for a short time after capturing photos to allow uploads to start.

3. Automatic Retry

D8Acapture will automatically retry uploads in the background as soon as your connection improves. There’s no need to restart the app or resubmit your photos manually; uploads will resume automatically once conditions improve.

Why does this happen?

Even if your phone shows a cellular connection, actual data speeds can vary. Large photo files require stable, high-speed connections to upload successfully. If uploads are delayed, it’s usually due to temporary network limitations rather than an issue with the app.

Analysis and Reporting

Can I perform pole loading analysis using this app?

Currently, our app does not include built-in pole loading analysis capabilities. However, we’re committed to continually enhancing our software to better serve your needs:

Future Export Templates: As part of our roadmap, we’re excited to introduce export templates compatible with major pole loading analysis software, including well-known solutions including OCalc and SpidaCalc.
Enhanced Compatibility: These export templates will facilitate the seamless transfer of data from our app to specialized pole loading analysis software, enabling you to conduct in-depth pole loading analysis with ease.
Maximizing Utility: Our aim is to provide you with a comprehensive solution that not only captures accurate utility pole data but also integrates effectively with the tools you rely on for advanced analysis and reporting.
Stay Tuned: We’re dedicated to delivering valuable updates that enhance your experience and capabilities. Keep an eye out for announcements about the availability of export templates and new features.

While direct pole loading analysis is not currently supported within our app, our upcoming export templates will allow you to leverage industry-standard analysis software seamlessly. This integration ensures that you can perform robust pole loading analysis while benefiting from the accurate data you’ve captured using our app.

What types of reports can I generate from the collected data?

Currently, our app generates a KML report to provide you with geographic information. However, we’re committed to expanding our reporting capabilities to better suit your needs:

Upcoming Export Formats: As part of our roadmap, we’re excited to introduce a range of additional export formats, including GeoJSON, Excel, Shapefiles, and AutoCAD DXF files.
Diverse Reporting Options: These new export formats will offer you versatile options for generating reports and sharing data. Whether you need to visualize geographic data, perform data analysis in Excel, or utilize specialized software like AutoCAD, we’ve got you covered.
Enhancing Flexibility: Our aim is to empower you with a variety of export formats, allowing you to choose the report type that aligns best with your analysis, collaboration, and reporting requirements.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for updates and announcements as we roll out these new export options. We’re dedicated to providing you with the tools you need to extract meaningful insights from your utility pole data.

Troubleshooting

The app is crashing on my device. What should I do?

Experiencing app crashes can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to resolve the issue:

Uninstall and Reinstall: In many cases, app crashes can be resolved by uninstalling the app from your device and then reinstalling it from the App Store. This can help eliminate any potential conflicts or corrupted files causing the crashes.
Ensure Latest Version: Make sure you’re using the latest version of the app, as updates often include bug fixes and optimizations that address crash-related issues.
Check Device Compatibility: Ensure that your device meets the app’s minimum requirements. Sometimes, compatibility issues can lead to crashes.
Contact Support: If uninstalling and reinstalling the app doesn’t resolve the problem, or if you continue to experience crashes, don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team for assistance. Provide as much detail as possible about the issue, including any error messages or patterns you’ve noticed.

Our support team is here to help you get back to a smooth app experience. We understand that technical issues can arise, and we’re committed to assisting you in resolving them promptly and effectively.

I'm having trouble logging into my account. How can I reset my password?

If you’ve forgotten your password or need to reset it for any reason, our app provides a straightforward process to get you back to using your account:

Access Password Reset: At the login page of the app, you’ll find a “Forgot Password?” link. Click on this link to initiate the password reset process.
Enter Email Address: You’ll be prompted to enter the email address associated with your account. Make sure to enter the correct email address linked to your app account.
Password Reset Email: If the email address is accurate, you’ll receive an email containing a unique link. Clicking on this link will take you to a page where you can enter a new password.
Reset Your Password: On the password reset page, enter your new password and confirm it. After that, simply follow the instructions to save the changes.
Access Your Account: With your new password set, you can now log in using your updated credentials and continue using the app as usual.

If you’re ever in a situation where you need to reset your password, our app’s password reset process ensures a secure and user-friendly experience, allowing you to quickly regain access to your account.

Feedback and Feature Requests

How can I provide feedback about the app?

We value your input and are eager to hear your thoughts and suggestions for making our app even better. To provide feedback or suggest new features, simply follow these steps:

Access the Form: Click on the following link: Feedback and Feature Request Form. This link will take you to a dedicated form where you can share your feedback.
Fill out the Form: In the provided form, you can share feedback about your experience with the app, ideas for new features, and how we can enhance your utility pole management tasks.
Submit Your Input: Once you’ve filled out the form with your feedback or feature suggestions, hit the “Submit” button.
We’re Listening: Your feedback will be directed to our development and support teams, who will carefully review your input. Your ideas will shape the future of our app’s enhancements!
Stay Updated: We’re committed to continuous improvement, and your feedback plays a crucial role. Keep an eye on announcements and updates for new features inspired by user suggestions.

Your feedback is invaluable to us, and we’re excited to collaborate with you in making our app the best it can be. Thank you for taking the time to share your insights and ideas!

Is there a way to stay informed about app updates and enhancements?

We’re dedicated to providing you with the latest information about updates and enhancements to our app. Here’s how you can stay in the loop:

Email Notifications (Company Admins): If you’re a company admin, you’ll receive email notifications directly about new updates, feature releases, and app enhancements. These emails will keep you informed about the evolving capabilities of the app.
Engage with Our Support Team: If you have specific questions about updates or new features, don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team. They’ll be more than happy to provide you with the latest information and address any inquiries you may have.

We’re committed to keeping you informed and engaged, ensuring you’re up to date with the advancements and improvements we’re making to D8Acapture. Your continued engagement is highly appreciated as we strive to provide you with the best utility pole management experience.