How Water Utilities Can Transform Fragmented Data Into A Unified Asset For Operational Excellence

By Sheila Kee

Water utilities stand at the intersection of legacy infrastructure and digital innovation. As demand grows and environmental pressures mount, utilities face the challenge of transitioning from siloed, fragmented data systems to cohesive platforms that unlock the full potential of digital transformation. Despite approximately 60% of water utilities collecting substantial amounts of data, many struggle to leverage it effectively, leaving valuable insights untapped.

Siloed data limits visibility, slows decision-making, and reduces operational efficiency. However, by addressing these challenges head-on, utilities can transform data into their most valuable asset — driving operational excellence and sustainable water management.

This transformation requires a shift in perspective. Instead of viewing data as a byproduct of operations, utilities must treat it as a strategic asset capable of enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and optimized water distribution. This article outlines how utilities can overcome the obstacles of fragmented systems and offers actionable strategies to create a unified data ecosystem.