It’s a fact: The water sector is smarter than ever before, and it’s only getting smarter. Across the U.S., water utilities expect to invest $8.3 billion in smart infrastructure by 2027 to meet the need for modernization, according to a study by Northeast Group.
Water and wastewater utilities can use digital technologies to support traditional water infrastructure. Smart tools provide utilities greater awareness and control over their operations. If utilities are hoping to reduce operational costs, increase efficiency, and identify problems early, smart tools can help with that. These tools can also enhance decision-making, regulatory compliance, security, and more.
An intelligent water system is a set of interconnected pieces of technology that collect and analyze datasets. Utilities can use that data to support automation or decisions.
But some utilities may feel overwhelmed by intelligent water systems. Where do you start? What do you focus on? How do you set your scope?
That’s why it’s important to have upfront conversations. We’ve spent years working with utilities and other clients implementing digital tools. We recognize the overwhelming feelings that come with the change. We think it’s vital to analyze your readiness for intelligent water systems early on. Are you ready for a smart utility transformation now? If not, how do you get ready? Let’s explore three ways to assess your smart utility readiness.
I. Establish the goal of your transformation
During our years working with clients on their utility management, we’ve noticed two approaches when they’re considering smart tools.
- First: Some utilities declare that they’re going to become a smart utility — and that everything they do from now on must include smart water infrastructure. Take a step back. Are you aware of the considerable cost, time, and commitment for that goal? Plus, we’ve yet to see a full smart transformation. So, it might not even be possible.
- Second: Some clients say they’d like to incorporate principles of a smart utility. These utilities want to focus on a particular problem or set of problems instead of a full transformation.
For example, just because you’ve taken a digital approach to your collection system doesn’t mean that you’re a smart utility. It just means that you’ve likely improved your collection system operations.
If you want to become a smart utility in everything you do, that could be a huge effort. Especially compared with transforming just one part of your operation.
So, at the outset, utility managers need to establish their scope of work. What’s your goal? Why do you want to incorporate intelligent water systems? Once you ask those questions, the logistics will follow. It drives your behavior and defines your commitment, resources, and cost.
If you don’t take the time to define your goals, it could lead to confusion, frustration, and a lack of direction. You’ll likely waste money and time, and potentially abandon your project.
II. Build a sense of urgency and create a team that supports your transformation
Once you’ve established the goal of your smart utility transformation, it’s time to excite people in your organization. Create a sense of urgency. Have transparent conversations. Ask questions like, “How can this help you in your work? How can we get ready for change?”
If there’s no sense of urgency to do something, and no team to support it, then you could be wasting your time.
We like to refer to change management expert John Kotter, who detailed an eight-step change process in his 1995 book Leading Change. His early steps are particularly relevant here.
- Step one: develop urgency, which can lead to motivation to start your transition. Define why you need to bring in smart elements. Consider what other utilities have done. Have lots of discussions. Look at key opportunities or threats that could emerge if you don’t start to implement technology. Develop your vision.
- Step two: form a powerful coalition. Bring together a team of leaders and influential people who can build momentum toward this need for change. You need to convince people that change is essential.
It’s important to perform these Kotter-inspired steps up front. Don’t just dive into smart utility implementation right away. They’re vital to assess your readiness before you dive into “do” mode.
While working for a utility, it’s easy to get lost in an “everything is an emergency” view. Change can be fed from either top-down or bottom-up approaches.
III. Emphasize the positive parts of your transformation
The more we work with clients on their smart utility transformation, the more we value a positive approach. You may already be using smart technology in parts of your operation. And while that tech could probably be updated or improved, it’s important to celebrate what you’re doing. You’re likely on the right track.
When considering your readiness, look at what you’ve already modernized. What components are working well?
Avoid looking at your operations with a negative perspective. Usually, you don’t need to change everything. Notice the positive elements and build on them. Manage your weaknesses and amplify your strengths.
Set up milestones to celebrate the current state of the organization, as true transformation takes time. For example, conduct business process flow workshops, so you can understand what it takes to integrate multiple software platforms into one.
A modern approach to utility challenges
We know that water and wastewater utilities face challenges on many fronts: Effective planning for their infrastructure to meet demand. Complex supply chains. Affordability of services. Compliance with regulations. Adapting to climate change. And many more.
As utilities strive to meet these challenges, they should consider intelligent water systems and smart utility approaches. But they need to have upfront conversations to establish readiness and lay the right foundation. Establish goals, build a sense of urgency, form a support team, and focus on the positive aspects of what’s already been accomplished.
We wish you good luck in your smart utility transformation. Change isn’t easy. But if you’re ready for it, the future is waiting.
