Eventful Times

I have been a member of Dial One Wolfedale Electric’s Social Committee since my first year of employment with the company in 1998. I have enjoyed everything that we as a committee have done throughout the years. The members of the social committee are responsible to plan annual events and secure venues that will engage the employees of Wolfedale Electric. With a company of 100 to 150 employees and their families at varying times throughout the year choosing and planning successful and safe events can be a huge task made easier by the formation of our Social Committee. Requesting feedback and suggestions from our field and office staff about prior events and new events helps to ensure we are considering everyone, of all ages finding events/activities that will be enjoyed by all.

Approaching the end of 2011, we now look back at our events for the year:

A successful Christmas party; a wonderful venue and new activity (Picture Booth) was the ultimate party maker. Wolfedale employees engaged in laughter and fun while dressing up and posing for the Picture Machine. Let’s not forget about the reindeer in the lobby of the hall which received many kisses from the employees, some more than once.

In the summer of 2011 we held our annual Picnic at Canada’s Wonderland; a popular venue two years in a row. Once again this popular venue proved to be a huge success for the employees of Wolfedale Electric and their family members of all ages. Stomach twisting rolling hills and thrilling climbs of coaster rides left expressions of anticipation and excitement on the faces of all. The face painting and washable tattoos were a huge success when everyone gathered to enjoy a tasty and social lunch.



Picnic 2010



Christmas Party 2010



With 2011 events having come to an end we now look forward to planning/choosing our venues, for 2012. As part of the committees planning skills, we pick and choose through a variety of venues for annual picnics, Christmas parties and possible in between events and activities. Although time consuming visiting a variety of venues can be very interesting viewing décor, sometimes trying menu items and of course choosing from a variety of forms of entertainment; Handwriting analysis, Shoe

readings as well as some things we have done in the past; Picture Booth, Dress Up DJ’s, and more.

As with anything we do there are a number of tasks to complete; working with others, discussing ideas, planning, scheduling, reviewing and implementation are all part of any success!

Daphne Mansfield

Receptionist

dmansfield@dialonewolfedale.com

Dial One Wolfedale Electric

Giving You the Power!

What your Blackberry can do for you

I have been an employee at Wolfedale Electric for just over 7 years. When I started the foreman and project managers were using the old ‘Mike’ style handsets. As technology evolves we; our Foremen, Project Managers, and Lead Hands have jumped into the era of Blackberry Smartphone, each having little or no practical hands on instruction due to time constraints. As a company, the transition from the ‘old’ style cell phones to the new Blackberry Smartphone, we have had our share of growing pains due to lack of information. I myself have been a Blackberry user for about 8 years. I have always found they serve as a very useful tool; a great resource of information when in a pinch. I felt by writing this blog I could provide everyone some insight into exactly what your BB (blackberry) can do and how it can make your life easier.

First let’s walk through some set-up directions:
Choosing/creating a ‘Blackberry ID’; this is the e-mail address you will use to sign in and download ‘apps’ in the blackberry app store. Scroll down to the bottom right side of the sign in screen and click or tap (depending on your device) on the ‘create new id’ icon. After you have this set-up you can go into your set-up screen and set your e-mail address(s) up accordingly, of course to do this you will need your e-mail address and password for the account.

Helpful ‘apps’- Some pre-loaded on your smart phone/others available for free download. The most important app that I have found for the blackberry is under your ‘applications’ folder, it is called ‘Blackberry Protect’. What this app allows you to do is enter your primary e-mail for the phone and set up an account of sorts. This app will automatically back up all the information on your device, including BBM (blackberry messenger) contacts, and save them to the account you have created. This account is available from any PC by entering your login information; it is run and kept secure by Research in Motion (RIM), makers of the blackberry. This is a particularly important app as I know many of us ‘forget’ or don’t find the time to sync and back up our blackberry’s regularly or if you ever lose your BB or it gets damaged and requires replaced.

Jackie (President of Dial One Wolfedale Electric) will appreciate this next app – GasBuddy; everyone with a gas card has the ability to search from their current location for the closest gas station and one with the best gas prices.

Another fun to use app: the VLingo. This app is similar to what that ‘other’ Smartphone company has where you can speak to the app and it can do a variety of things such as schedule meetings, lunches, or any type of activity you like. It will also send txt messages, e-mails or meeting requests, all with the touch of a button and by speaking to your phone!

Two other apps I highly recommend are Drive Safely and Documents to go. Documents to go comes preloaded on your phone and this app allows you to view, edit or create documents from your BB and send them to whoever you like, or yourself, this is especially handy when you find yourself stuck in a meeting and you need to get time sheets in to Monica (Office Administrator Dial One Wolfedale Electric.)

The DriveSafely app (which by the way is free until December 31) is for all of us BB junkies who can’t wait to read emails and text messages until we’ve finished driving. This function offers the capability to not only read messages it will also (in conjunction with app-Vlingo) allow you to respond to them without taking your eyes off the road, (how cool is that!)

Now forgetting appointments, being late for meetings and not completing items on your list of things to do, are a thing of the past. Your BB Smartphone comes complete with built in calendar, memo pad and task creator to help you stay organized, on time and allow you to make up ‘To Do’ lists while on the go. These apps also tie directly in with your Outlook e-mail which allows you to upload and download all the To Do lists or tasks you already have on your computer.

In addition to the above apps I have one other function (as it is a pet peeve of mine) that many may find quite useful. No one need know whether your emails are being sent via your BB device or PC with your signature edit on your BB device. You just need to go into the e-mail set-up tab on your phone and then click on or tap, the appropriate e-mail address in choose ‘edit’ this will allow you to set your name, signature, auto CC or any other features that outlook would let you choose.

Now for the best part, RIM is a locally owned and operated company based in Waterloo Ontario. They have brought a lot of jobs to the region and they continue to grow and contribute to the community. Why are so many people supporting the ‘other’ smartphone maker? Well the most common reason I hear is “look at all the apps they have” or “the IPhone is so cool”. I do agree that the iPhone has unlimited apps and does look pretty cool, however I can honestly say that the Blackberry is perfect for the average ‘Business Professional’ and Trades Person.

Thank you for your time and I hope this gave you some more insight into what your blackberry can do for you!

Pieter Mueleman
Project Manager & Estimator
pmueleman@dialonewolfedale.com
Dial One Wolfedale Electric
Giving You the Power!

Wolfedale Processes

I have been an employee at Wolfedale Electric for 26 years and watched the company grow in size (people & sales) and mature into a thriving electrical contracting business. With growth came the need for more structure and processes to ensure our electrical projects were completed on time, efficiently, and profitably.

Wolfedale worked with MRSI Consulting Company   www.mrsiconsulting.com/ to help pull all of these systems together. MRSI reviewed everything from a job numbering system, to quote procedures, to billing processes for all departments including 24 hour Emergency, Planned Maintenance, Construction Design/Build, Industrial Process and Material Handling. Nothing was left unturned as we worked through how things were done here at Wolfedale.

One of the biggest flaws we found was a process to “turn a project over” from Wolfedale’s sales staff to our operations group. We found that we had a poor way of getting the information that our sales/estimating staff had about a project and getting it into our operations hands. After hours of debate we inked out a flowchart that would allow a smoother transition and a better understanding of what had been sold. The key to the whole process was time. Everyone gets busy and our customers were leaving us less and less time to organize and start our projects. Wolfedale has implemented a process to have all related parties (sales/project management/foreman) attend a meeting before the job starts and all information is to be shared down to the last detail. We have implemented checklists to be completed and incorporated into the appropriate job file for on-going reference.

After starting this process our foremen are more comfortable with the customer deadlines and expectations and our sales and project management staff know our customer will receive what they require.

We are not perfect and have allowed a few jobs slip through the process (no start-up meeting or weak at best) and we have paid for it. It costs Wolfedale time, money and puts us in a tough spot meeting our customers’ needs. Our goal is to continue to close the gap between sales and operations and ultimately improve our customers’ experience.

Jim Graham
Vice President Operations
Dial One Wolfedale Electric
905-564-8999 ext 223
Giving You the Power.

Choosing the Right Solar Installer!

In Ontario Solar systems are being constructed everywhere. They are on houses, barns, industrial rooftops, store rooftops, farmer’s fields and, even on the front lawn of some home owners with large properties. The question that is often asked, “Does it really Work?” The short answer is “Absolutely.” When the sun comes up Photovoltaic cells will produce energy. How much energy depends on the quality and design of the installation. Deciding on the right installer can be the difference between a good or bad installation that is part of a Feed in Tariff program.  A question to ask here would be: “Am I making as much $$$$ as possible?” In a standalone system in areas that are off grid a question to ask would be “Am I going to produce enough energy to watch the Hockey Game?” Either system will begin with choosing the right installer.

Dial One Wolfedale Electric Gives You the Power to: Choose the Right Solar Installer!

Design- Wolfedale Electric pays attention to the design; shading performance, future shading issues (trees do grow), does it face south? There are many tools to assist with a design. Wolfedale incorporates the proper tools to design a system specifically for the individual needs of each client.  Whatever way your installer uses, they should be able to explain it to you.

Engineering - When looking at every solar installation Wolfedale has the investigating tools and engineering experience necessary to ensure each and every system guarantees our client will get the most out of their design process:

•  A process that considers Mother Nature and all other factors Wolfedale makes certain that your investment will translate to a favorable payback; ensuring the structure of a roof top has the stability/strength required for a solar installation.
• On a ground mount Wolfedale considers the winds and nature for each solar installation.
• A simplified explanation of the installation process to the client; allowing for informative decision making.

Electrical – The purpose of your solar installation is to produce electricity; requires the proper electrical installation; Wolfedale makes certain an installation is done right:

• Wolfedale ensures the project installation (whether through the FIT program-feed in tariff or off grid) will produce the electricity which can and will generate/replace power usage from the grid or generate the power to ensure the investment is profitable.
• Wolfedale provides the knowledge of proper wiring methods as required and regulated by code; using only licensed electricians, registered with ESA and a member of the OEL. Connection to a grid must be done by a qualified electrical contractor, choosing Wolfedale for your installation ensures your installation is always completed by licensed electricians in cooperation/regulation with the proper authorities; maintaining safety as a priority for our employees and customer alike.
• Wolfedale will guarantee proper inspections are being done throughout the entire project.
• Solar (like any electrical installation) has the ability to cause injury to installers and damage to equipment. The short circuit of one string can be “shocking”. Example (video above) - of a poor install (what not to do)!
• Wolfedale will make sure that the proper equipment is always being used, (not all equipment is rated for the higher DC voltages that are present with most PV installations).                                                                                                                                                                                  

Support – Dial One Wolfedale Electric partners with dependable and trust worthy suppliers and manufactures to ensure that our clients receive the right support and warranty for their project:

• Wolfedale recognizes that each installation is different and requires a custom support system for each client.
• Wolfedale while providing the necessary support; recognizes the need for “tweaking” with each installation to ensure viability.
• Maintenance as with any installation is a critical process Wolfedale suggests to clients to plan for high performance and longevity of all electrical systems.

Experience - Choosing the right installer:
Does your installer have experience to ensure that you (the customer) will be a priority? Will they have the experience to protect your assets? Will they abide by codes; the knowledge and experience to eliminate the possibility of injury ensuring the safety of all? Will they apply enough time to review your project, to avoid costly delays?

Dial One Wolfedale Electric Gives You the Power to complete your project Safely, On Time and On Budget!

Mike Roden
Project Manager
Dial One Wolfedale Electric
Giving You the Power!

Giving You the Power

Wolfedale believes in “Giving You the Power” to make informed decisions around the electrical systems within your facilities. We do this by increasing your efficiency, improving safety on your sites, minimizing your downtime and reducing your risk. We believe our competitive advantage encompasses:

Our ability. To help our clients have the “power to choose”.
Wolfedale Electric’s goal is to work efficiently and effectively to address your electrical needs. Our Service Department achieves at 96% response rate to all emergency calls within a two hour window. We strive to ensure we are on time and within your budget. In our New Construction Design Build department, we implement a value engineering step to ensure we are maximizing your dollars to the best of our ability. Within all of our departments, we ensure the work is done right the first time. Our warranty costs are essentially nonexistent, with a rate of 2/100 of 1% being the costs we have spent to repair work done in the past three years.

Our people. We believe in giving them the “ power to grow”.

Our employees are qualified Electricians and Apprentices and we encourage them to learn a wide range of disciplines to assist in virtually every technical area of our clients’ needs. Our employees receive ongoing training in all aspects of electrical safety including health & safety regulations, safety equipment, arc flash hazards and more. This ensures the safest possible work environment for our customer’s job sites and facilities. For the past 2 years, our WSIB rate was 91% above industry average in Ontario (July 2011).

Our vendors. We believe in the “power of partnerships”.
Our vendors share our goal of customer satisfaction. They go the extra mile to work with Wolfedale to support our customers’ needs and we truly appreciate their support. Whether it’s equipment delivery dates or access to parts for emergency calls, our relationships are based on partnerships which ensure overall success for everyone. Our top 3 suppliers have been the same for more than 20 years.

Our industry. Wolfedale believes in the “power of co-operation”.

We help to improve standards across our industry by working cooperatively with the Ontario Electrical League and the Electrical Safety Authority. We keep up with incentive programs within our industry and bring you opportunities for savings. In our lighting retrofit department, we have been able to help our clients find over $800,000.00 in incentive money from the local programs with the Ontario Power Authority. https://www.saveonenergy.ca/Business/Program-Overviews/Retrofit-for-Commercial.aspx

Dial One Wolfedale’s philosophy is simple: we give you the power to make informed decisions. We provide you with highly skilled professionals that determine the safest and most efficient approach to completing each job. We offer you our services at a competitive price and we do your work right – the first time, every time.

Isn’t it time you got the Power?

As Your Company "Grows Up"

As your company “grows up”, so will your need for improved budgeting and financial planning tools. The more departments, products, services, and people you have, the more complicated it is to pull together a budget.

At Wolfedale Electric, we spend a great deal of time planning for the future. We make strategic and operations plans, and turn them into the financial budget that is necessary to track results against. Typically I would develop our annual budget in Excel. This was becoming increasingly difficult as the Excel model grew with the complexity of our business. It became hard to maintain the integrity of all the formulas, links, and pages. One mistake, omission, or accidental deletion would cause the account level details to not roll up properly. Finding the problem was often like finding a needle in a haystack.
Another shortcoming was that our budget was an annual budget - twelve months long. It became progressively near sighted as each month of the fiscal year went by. That makes little sense when your business planning is continuous and should always be looking out at least a year.

Lastly, our budget was only about sales, margin, expenses, and net income. What about assets, liabilities, and equity? There are some important things in there. Like cash!

I’m excited to have found a solution. It’s Budget Maestro from Centage Corporation. This slick software has some great features. It has a five year planning horizon. It’s integrated so the budget details are in the budget itself, not on separate working papers. It’s inherently accurate with no formulas to worry about. It uses a double entry (debit and credit) basis to automatically budget the balance sheet. Enter a budget expense item and the software makes the correct balance sheet entry! It has features for personnel expenses, assets and sales. You can budget increases on just about any basis. Want widget sales to increase 2 % a quarter over the next three years? Done! “What- if” scenarios are built in. Need a Plan B because your business situation is changing? No sweat!

Like most new business applications, it came with a considerable learning curve. I have put a lot of hours into understanding how it works and recently developing my first budget in it. I’m happy I can see the top of the curve now and its actually becoming easy. And it still has so many untapped capabilities.

If your company has outgrown doing its budget on a table napkin, spreadsheet, or whatever, I encourage you to look for a solution, and you might want to look at this one. At first sight it’s a bit pricey at about $4,000. But you can expect this to pay off in time savings, and better business planning - which means better business results. So if you can find it in your budget, I think it’s worth it!
Here’s a link to it if you’re interested: http://centage.com/products-budget-maestro-overview.htm

Mark Benson
Controller
Dial One Wolfedale Electric

Giving You the Power.

Safety at Wolfedale – Not Just “Lip Service”

“We’re safety oriented”. “We’re safety focused”. “Safety is our number one priority”. We’ve all heard it before. Companies everywhere assert that safety is a number one priority in their business. But is that true or just lip service?

Let us be honest with you; Wolfedale is in a dangerous industry – period. Electrical work is an inherently dangerous trade to do business in. Electricity can sneak up on you fast and without warning. Electricity does not discriminate based on nationality, nor does it care what the circumstances are or that you’re a great guy and should have a chance to live a long and healthy life. If you do something wrong, you may not get the chance to “learn from your mistake” and do it right in the future. You may be dead.

In the electrical industry today, it's unfortunate that there are still companies out there who just don’t get it. These companies will continue to compromise safety on some jobsites to save a buck and make a profit. These are the companies that the public needs to be aware of and to steer clear of. But how? One safeguard is for companies to check with the Electrical Safety Authority (http://esasafe.com/) and searching the Licensed Electrical Contractor listing to ensure that their contractor of choice has been recognized as a preferred contractor. Any approved contractor listed will have an Electrical Contractor Registration Agency (ECRA) number, which indicates that the contractor has met strict guidelines within the province around quality & safety. http://applications.dmtispatial.com/esa/  And yes, Wolfedale is on that list. Our ECRA number is #7000 658.

So, what does Wolfedale do that’s different? The key difference is that we make a point of doing it. We do regular jobsite inspections, we have weekly safety meetings called Toolbox Talks, we have a Joint Health & Safety Committee with certified members and we have an outside agency that audits us to ensure that we’re doing the right things – right. And we’re introducing a new position to the company in the fall of 2011 in the form of a dedicated Health & Safety Representative to ensure that we’re focused on safety. Are we perfect? No. No one can be. We can always be better and Wolfedale is always striving to improve. And we have been very fortunate to have an employee group who make a point of working safely every day so that they can go home to their families every night. That’s something that they believe in on a personal level and they live it every day.

At Wolfedale, our first core value is Safety and we often say, “Safety First. Safety Always.” Is that just lip service with a catchy phrase to go along with it? I can honestly say that safety is a focus in our company that we believe in and we would be proud to tell you all about it. Give us a call and ask us some questions. We’re happy to share our knowledge.

Allyson Rea
Human Resources Manager/Health and Safety
Dial One Wolfedale Electric
Giving You the Power!