SCOTTSDALE, AZ, Oct. 7, 2015 -- The National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) has named Connecticut Water Company the winner of its 2015 Management Innovation Awards for its customer protection program called "Be Sure Before You Open the Door." The announcement was made on Tuesday, Oct. 6, as part of the 2015 NAWC Water Summit in the city of Scottsdale, Ariz.
The NAWC Management Innovation Awards recognizes members of the organization for their groundbreaking, industry-changing ideas. This year's awards attracted a variety of entries from across the nation. Entries were judged on degree of innovation, short- and long-term benefits to the company, value to water utility industry, the idea's ability to be duplicated at other companies, and presentation quality.
"Each of the Management Innovation Award entries this year truly showed original and creative thinking from NAWC members," said Michael Deane, NAWC executive director. "Entries included everything from conservation efforts and management plans to technological advancements and community support initiatives."
Connecticut Water Company used automated features of their customer information system to link customer account records and generate an email to the customer with a photo of their service person when on route so the customer knows who to expect before their employee knocks on their door for a scheduled service appointment. The benefits were as follows:
- Applies a unique use of technology to address incidents of homeowners being targeted by criminals
- Targets a problem that impacts customers and utilities across the country
- Bolsters Connecticut Water employees commitment to provide protection for their customers -- evidenced by them embracing the program
"On behalf of our entire team involved in this important work, it's a tremendous honor to receive this prestigious award," said Eric Thornburg, president and CEO of Connecticut Water. "Connecticut Water Company works hard to support the communities we serve, and we are proud of our commitment to the safety of our customers -- from the water they consume to the on-site service we provide. We want to make sure that they know we are on their side and ready to serve."
The program has been very well received in the press, by customers, consumer protection advocates, and utility regulators. Connecticut Water continues to see the long-term benefits for customers and are proud to be providing this additional measure of protection for their customers and employees.
See also:
"NAWC Water Summit: Building public trust serves as primary focus of event"
"NAWC executive director makes statement on growing water infrastructure support"
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