What is the first step in deploying a Utility Network?

The first step in deploying a Utility Network is to create an enterprise database. This is essential because the enterprise database serves as the foundational structure that holds all the spatial and attribute data necessary for managing the utility network. A properly configured enterprise database is critical for ensuring that the Utility Network can be deployed effectively and can leverage geodatabase capabilities, such as versioning and topology, which are vital for utility operations.

Establishing the database first allows for the subsequent setup, including creating the Utility Network itself, defining network elements, and staging configurations in a structured environment. Without an enterprise database, other actions—such as creating users or enabling tracking—would not have a suitable environment to operate in, rendering them ineffective.