Welcome back to the IT/OT Insider Podcast, Today, we have a special guest, Dr. Amir Cahn, CEO of the Smart Water Networks Forum (SWAN). Dr. Cahn brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in leveraging data-driven technologies to transform water, wastewater and stormwater networks worldwide.
The SWAN (Smart Water Networks) Forum is a global hub for industry experts, innovators, and thought leaders dedicated to the digital transformation of the water sector. SWAN's mission is to accelerate the adoption of data-driven solutions to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and resilience of water networks worldwide. They unites a diverse range of stakeholders, including water utilities, engineering firms, technology companies, startups, investors, and academics, fostering collaboration and innovation across the water sector.
Understanding Data-as-a-Service (DaaS)
I was particularly interested in learning more about Data-as-a-Service (DaaS), a transformative model for water utilities. Unlike traditional methods where utilities manage their hardware and their data, DaaS shifts the responsibility to a service provider, who handles data generation, transmission, and analytics. This model allows utilities to focus on outcomes rather than infrastructure management.
"Data-as-a-Service is about shifting the risk and responsibility from the utility to the service provider. This way, utilities can decide whether they want just the data, a summary report, or predictive analytics," explains Dr. Cahn.
The Services Staircase
We also talked about the Services Staircase, a framework that outlines the progressive stages utilities can follow to enhance their data management capabilities. There are three different types of service levels: base (product), intermediate (service), and advanced (capability). This structured approach helps utilities gradually improve their data capabilities, ensuring a sustainable and scalable transformation. By following the Services Staircase, utilities can systematically build their expertise and infrastructure, leading to smarter, more efficient water management practices.
Real-World Examples of DaaS Implementations
Gonzales, Louisiana: Enhancing Service Quality with Smart Metering
In Gonzales, Louisiana, a small utility faced significant budget constraints that limited its ability to upgrade its infrastructure. By adopting a smart metering DaaS model, the utility was able to implement advanced metering infrastructure without the need for substantial upfront capital. The DaaS provider handled the data generation, transmission, and analytics, delivering actionable insights directly to the utility. This approach allowed the utility to improve billing accuracy and efficiency, while simultaneously enhancing service quality. As a result, Gonzales saw a reduction in water losses, improved customer satisfaction, and better resource management, demonstrating the tangible benefits of DaaS in a cost-effective manner.
Jerusalem: Reducing Industrial Pollution through Data-Driven Monitoring
In Jerusalem, the city's water utility faced challenges in monitoring and managing industrial pollution, which posed significant environmental and public health risks. By partnering with a DaaS provider, the utility was able to implement a comprehensive monitoring system that continuously collected and analyzed data from various industrial sites. This system provided real-time alerts and predictive analytics, enabling the utility to identify pollution sources and respond promptly to potential issues. The DaaS model not only improved the utility's ability to manage industrial pollution but also facilitated compliance with environmental regulations. This proactive approach led to a significant reduction in pollution incidents, showcasing how DaaS can drive environmental improvements and operational efficiency in urban water management.
The Future of Water Management
As we look to the future, Dr. Cahn envisions increased collaboration between utilities, technology providers, and other sectors. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing pressing challenges like climate change and resource management. Dr. Cahn encourages utilities to embrace DaaS and other innovative models to enhance their operations and sustainability.
"We're at a pivot point where water management needs innovative solutions more than ever. By working together, we can advance the sector and address global challenges."
Join the 350+ members of the SWAN Network
To learn more about DaaS and other innovative water management solutions, visit the SWAN Forum's website. Now is a great time to get involved, as SWAN is offering a 10% discount on membership until July 30th. Join SWAN's global community to share insights, collaborate on projects, and drive the future of water management.
Resources
Find Dr. Amir Cahn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amir-cahn/
Download the free DaaS Playbook: https://swan-forum.com/publications/swan-daas-playbook/
Become a SWAN member: https://swan-forum.com/join/
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Data-as-a-Service in Water & Wastewater with Dr. Amir Cahn, CEO SWAN Forum