transfer protocol (like DIGGS) is a valuable and necessary component of efforts going forward. Widespread adoption of DIGGS and its expansion to accommodate pile data could be used to upgrade existing (and to set up future) pile load test databases. Specifically, DIGGS can be used to import and export information from pile load test databases. Because of the diversity and pro- prietary nature of nonstandardized data- bases, the seemingly simple task of data transfer is currently a time-consuming and complicated effort. With support from software vendors, these data could be l o a d e d o n p o p u l a r foundation design and analysis software, as well as in-house design algorithms. DIGGS could also facilitate automated and highly reproducible processes that allow analyzing pile data in batches. As a result, workflow efficiency could be dramatically increased, while reducing manual entry errors. Beyond efficiency, the batch analysis process opens up opportunities for a high-level evalu- ation of the performance of foundations by statistical analyses over a large volume of results. Moving Forward DIGGS is now ready for general use. On the DIGGS website, instructions are provided for the user to become familiar with the DIGGS framework (i.e., the schema), and there is a “data dictionary” to identify the rules for the specific data elements. The website also offers access to tools (i.e., DIGGS Feedback Tool and DIGGS Toolbox) to allow users to generate DIGGS files (i.e., XML files) that can be used to populate tables, generate plots, and/or interface with software that will accept XML-structured DIGGS data. During development of DIGGS, the G-I committed to providing web-based tools for generating and using DIGGS files. The DIGGS Development Team is also com- mitted to maintaining and expanding the DIGGS schema, supporting the devel- opment of user-friendly interfaces, pro- viding recommendations for data man- agement and training for developing and Conclusion In order for construction-related busi- nesses in this data-driven era to operate at maximum efficiency, they must first organize existing information and convert it to data that can be analyzed. The authors believe that the common language that DIGGS provides can prove invaluable in this effort for the deep foundations industry and beyond. The reasons include the open-source nature of the DIGGS framework and its ability to enhance data transfer and storage by making data export easier and allowing data import to multiple software applications. DIGGS’s schema is continually being expanded with more tests and procedures, including construction and performance data regarding deep foundations. using DIGGS files, working with software developers to include DIGGS-formatted data as acceptable imports to (and exports from) their programs, and establishing a sustainable business model to allow for the future growth and adoption of DIGGS. This offer of support extends to the deep foundations community. Deep Foundations Institute (DFI) is supporting this effort with the recently funded project titled DIGGS Scheme for Rock Grouting Data Transfer through the DFI Committee Project Fund. This project will utilize the geotechnical and temporal instrumentation features currently available in DIGGS, along with monitoring while drilling (MWD) concepts, to develop the first foundation construction scheme within the DIGGS platform. Robert Bachus, Ph.D., P.E., D.GE, is a senior principal engineer with Geosyntec Consultants in Ken- nesaw, Georgia. He has more than 40 years of experience across a wide range of geotechnical and environmental projects, and is a member of the Geo-Institute (G-I) of ASCE DIGGS Development Team. Nick Machairas, Ph.D., is an engineering con- sultant and an applied analytics lecturer at Columbia University, and a member of the G-I of ASCE DIGGS Development Team. He has over 7 years of experience developing custom artificial intelligence and data management solutions to improve the efficiency of deep foundations. Allen Cadden, P.E., D.GE, is a principal with Schnabel Engineering and leads the G-I of ASCE DIGGS Development Team. He has over 30 years of experience in geotechnical engineering and is licensed in 11 states. Editorial Submissions Want to share your expertise, project experience and product information with the deep foundations community? DFI is always interested in editorial submissions for Deep Foundations magazine. We are particularly interested in articles on state-of-the-art projects (big and small) and new 100 • DEEP FOUNDATIONS • MAY/JUNE 2020 techniques, products and technology. Guidelines for writing feature articles are available on www.dfi.org — select ‘Publications’ and then navigate to ‘DFI Magazine.’ To discuss an idea for an article, contact the executive editor, at [email protected].
