The deployment of smart devices and communication technologies enable the introduction of smart distribution applications that improve grid efficiency and performance. Such applications include advanced automation and SCADA systems for reliability improvement, outage management systems, fault location and fault management, voltage and VAR management systems, distributed resource and renewable generation integration, demand response systems, advanced protection systems, equipment diagnostics and asset management, real time simulation for system optimization, microgrids and many others that is being addressed by IEEE P1854 Smart Distribution Application Guide. This panel session will focus on the incorporation of these emerging technologies to improve grid efficiency and performance.