E-Ticket “Point-to-Point” Mapping Goes Statewide

Thousands of Minnesota’s Facility Operators and Professional Excavators will be pleased to learn that E-Ticket, GSOC’s internet-based locate request entry method has now come full circle since January 1, 2011. Effective immediately, all users may utilize any of the versatile mapping options for locate request submittal:

1. “Text-entry” only method. Users submit all required contact, geographical location, specific dig-site, precise marking instructions and driving directions if needed for each locate request ticket. Using this method, it is highly recommended that the submitter provide township, range, section and quarter information, or provide land-based map information, such as a Hudson or King Map page and grid. The user may then opt to have GSOC customer service reps complete the request by mapping the dig site for them.

2. Basic “Dig Box” mapping. E-ticket users enter all required information as listed in # 1, then enter: “I will map my dig location”. Then, toggle the “Zoom” feature to search E-Ticket’s database for the dig site. Then a basic 4-sided polygon can be drawn in the approximate geographical area of the dig site or address.

3. Point-to-Point mapping. E-Ticket users follow all instructions as in number 1 and 2,  then may opt to draw a “free-form” or point-to-point polygon to most accurately map the dig site, with or without an address.

Utilizing mapping options two and three will vastly decrease processing and “turn-around” time. All locate requests, with a list of potentially affected underground utilities and contact phone numbers are sent to the E-Ticket user once processing is completed by GSOC. In all circumstances, established GSOC safety protocol and ticket-taking procedures must be carefully followed. To aid the E-Ticket user to that end, a basic training video and complete training manuals are available by following this link: http://www.gopherstateonecall.org/index.php/submit-exc-ticket/e-ticket-training.html

Interested E-Ticket users may also view GSOC’s Events & Seminars tab for upcoming training classes:
http://www.gopherstateonecall.org/index.php/events-a-seminars.html

“Live” In-depth E-Ticket training classes are available for no charge. Contact Jon Eisele, Director of Public Relations & Education: joneisele@gopherstateonecall.org 651-681-7303, or Kevin Grutzmacher, Public Relations & Education Coordinator: kevin@gopherstateonecall.org 651-681-7305. Good luck E-Ticket users!