Opening of Proposals - Utility Billing System - North Star Utilities Solutions - Part 1

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INvaa a aai*0 ar►2% NorthStar are held in specific database tables until they are loaded to a G/L interface file. Once the file has been generated, the transactions are moved to NorthStar's internal G/L archive tables. These archives can be searched and reported upon through specifically designed screens. Searches can be based on a specific G/L account number, a particular type of transaction, or a specific day or month. G/L archives are never purged, so historical data is readily available if required. Rates and Fees Management NorthStar has an extremely flexible rate engine. Standard rates based on consumption can work independently or in tandem with flat rates, minimum charges, and charges per unit. Each rate element is configured as taxable or tax exempt and multiple tax rates can be assigned if necessary. Rates are driven by effective dates, and NorthStar can automatically prorate over any rate changes depending on the utility's practices as well as on first and final bills. For metered services, NorthStar can be configured to bill for standard consumption, peak demand, net metering, master/deduct, and wastewater. Minimum charges and fixed charges can both be accommodated. For trash billing, NorthStar can use flat rates, can bill by container, or a combination of both. For storm water services, NorthStar can be set up to bill based on impervious area, or it can calculate the impervious area from the total square footage of a property and bill based on the results of the calculation. Miscellaneous fees can be created on an ad hoc basis, or set up as a temporary fee to be billed over multiple months. Through NorthStar's Miscellaneous Accounts Receivable, or MAR module (an additional license and services are required), one time fees can be invoiced without having to create an entire account in NorthStar. Device Management NorthStar tracks all equipment inventories and provides simple methods for removals, installations, or exchanges. Inventory management is supported through specific screens and reports that can be secured for use by appropriate field resources. Counts, status reports, bulk loading and deleting are all included in standard functionality for all equipment. Specific modules include electric meters, transformers, PTs/CTs, water meters, backflow devices, and refuse containers. Functionality specific to each type of equipment is easily accessible and consistent in process to facilitate easy adoption by staff. Equipment information associated with a premise can be available for viewing by CSRs and others as defined through the security setups while preventing access to more sensitive information suitable only for technical staff. Contact Management The CARe module in NorthStar provides a vehicle to track all contacts with a customer. Call types are entirely user -defined and can be targeted for specific types of accounts, specific services, or specific departments within the organization. NorthStar automatically records a date/timestamp and user id when the contact record is created, and provides extensive room for even the most complicated notes. Multiple statuses are available to assist in managing ongoing issues, and reports can be instantly generated based on status, call type, user, department, and created date, as well as many other criteria. Contacts are presented in grid format so the user has instant access to the contact history; entries are completed in real-time and can be made available to any user through the security configuration. A CSR could answer a call, document the issue while transferring the call to the field office, and the field technician would be able to review the contact details instantly thus negating the requirement for the customer to restate their problem. NorthStar provides a seamless customer experience and enhanced efficiency for all employees who serve them. Service Order Management NorthStar Proposal Response —South Bend Indiana