Topobase is Autodesk's platform for integrating infrastructure design and management. This study details the business benefits of using Topobase within utilities. We conducted this study using standard IDC methods for assessing business value in terms of return on investment. We also outline industry trends that drive utilities toward integrated information management platforms like Topobase. We include two case studies from established Topobase users. Our intent is to provide information useful to decision makers who are considering solutions for reducing costs and improving process efficiencies within their information systems.

To evaluate the business benefits of integrated computer-aided design (CAD) and geographic information systems (GIS) data supporting business processes, IDC interviewed executives at six companies -- in North America and Europe -- using Autodesk Topobase and asked a series of questions about the impact of Autodesk's Topobase solution on their operations.