Frequently asked questions
Common questions about what Optioneer reports, how its metrics and assessment criteria are configured, and how teams work in it.
Can Optioneer tell me exactly what my route crosses, and where?
Yes. Optioneer doesn't just count major crossings. It lists each one by name and type (road, rail, watercourse, utility) with its location along the route, so you can put the details straight into your report without cross-checking maps by hand.
Do I need to export data to a spreadsheet to calculate elevation and slope?
No. Optioneer works out elevation and slope statistics automatically for every route option, including maximum, minimum and average elevation, slope percentages, and the share of spans above a set length. The figures update whenever the route changes.
Can I create my own metrics for a project or client?
Yes. You can define custom metrics that match your assessment criteria, such as “% of spans over 200 m” or “maximum slope in sensitive areas”. Optioneer then calculates them for every option, so you don't need separate spreadsheets or manual calculations.
Can Optioneer produce outputs aligned with the 501 specification?
Optioneer can be set up to report metrics and constraints in the structure your specification needs. That cuts out the step of reworking outputs to fit the required format.
Does Optioneer support RAG (Red, Amber, Green) assessment?
Yes. You set the thresholds for each metric, such as slope, and Optioneer gives every route option a RAG status automatically. This makes options easy to compare and quick to summarise for stakeholders.
Can it identify key constraints along a route, with location details?
Yes. Optioneer shows which constraints each option affects and where along the route they sit, so your reporting is specific and backed by evidence rather than just totals.
What happens if the assessment methodology changes partway through a project?
You update the criteria or thresholds and run the appraisal again. There's no need to rebuild spreadsheets or reassess every route by hand, so a change that would take days of manual work can be dealt with far faster.
How does Optioneer help with writing alignment or optioneering reports?
Optioneer produces report-ready outputs: crossing schedules, elevation and slope statistics, constraint summaries and RAG assessments. You spend your time on analysis and judgement, not on putting data together.
How easy is it for a new team member to pick up an existing project?
Straightforward. Constraints, assumptions, metrics and results are all stored in the platform, not in one person's files. That makes handovers smoother and keeps the audit trail clear.
Is Optioneer only for transmission routing, or does it support grid connections too?
It supports both. Connections teams have the same need for consistent, specification-aligned reporting, and Optioneer's custom metrics and automated outputs work for connections projects as well.
Questions by topic
Each topic has its own page, with answers to the questions teams ask about that kind of project.
Still have a question?
Tell us what you are trying to report on, and we will show you how Optioneer handles it on a live project.
