The ROAM Project Part 1: Exploring new frontiers in video conferencing to expand the delivery of remote O&M services in regional Western Australia

Twenty-five trials were conducted over a three-month period to investigate the potential for delivering O&M services remotely via video conferencing. Participants varied in age, geographical location, level of functional vision, and O&M goals. The video conferencing connection was made using the Vidyo software platform. Eleven participants (located remotely) were required to wear a chest harness that had been adapted to connect with an iPhone 6+, and were accompanied by a support person. An office-based O&M specialist provided instruction, guidance, and training as required throughout the sessions. The trials appeared to demonstrate that a range of O&M services can be successfully delivered via video conferencing.