Software providers must connect with industry professionals & enable them to do their jobs better

Please tell us about your background and experience in the water sector, and how you got involved in software technology and digital twins.

While in a Master’s degree program at Brigham Young University over 25 years ago, I became enamoured with water engineering technology, specifically software, when I joined the Engineering Computer Graphic Lab (later renamed the Environmental Modelling Research Lab) as a software developer focused on computational hydrology.  From there, my career has covered the full range of roles in software technology, starting my career building applications as a software developer and progressing through product management, customer success management, sales & marketing, to senior executive management roles. Most recently, I've served as CEO of Innovyze, the leading global provider of smart water analytics software solutions, and Vice President at Autodesk, the global leader of engineering design & make software solutions.

The topic of digital twins is a fairly natural extension of the water system simulation technology that I have worked with for over two decades. A digital twin to me is comprised of three things: 1) an asset twin (digital representation of the water infrastructure assets that exist or are planned to exist); 2) a behavioural twin (a simulation of how that set of assets performs under various input conditions); 3) an operational twin (a digital representation collecting real-time data to establish situational awareness and a forward-looking simulation to provide predictive advice, a “what will happen next and what should we do next” system).

Can you provide an overview of the current state of the water infrastructure software market and its significance in the broader context of water management?

Software systems that assist in infrastructure asset performance management are becoming the norm for utilities, public agencies, etc.

The water infrastructure software industry is experiencing a lot of growth and innovation, driven by the increasing need for efficient and sustainable water management. Advanced technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and data analytics are being integrated into software platforms (many of which have been around for many years, assisting water experts to manage water) to help utilities, public agencies, and private industry optimize their water distribution systems (reduce water loss, ensure proper drinking quality, and minimize cost) and optimize wastewater or stormwater systems (avoid sewer overflow, ensure proper wastewater treatment, identify odour and corrosion issues, and protect communities from floodwater).  All of this is happening in an environment where water infrastructure is aging and failing, so software systems that assist in infrastructure asset performance management are rapidly becoming the norm for utilities, public agencies, etc. that need to know what condition their assets are in, what maintenance might be needed next, what failure points are likely and what dollars are needed to keep systems running optimally.

Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on cybersecurity in the water sector to protect critical infrastructure from potential threats. Utilities are investing in cloud-based software solutions that can safeguard their systems against cyberattacks and ensure the reliability of water infrastructure.

In the broader context of water management, software plays a vital and ever-increasing role in water management, bringing about significant improvements in how we monitor, control, and optimize the distribution of this precious resource. A few key points that software enables:

• Data Collection and Analysis: water management software allows for the real-time collection and analysis of data from various sensors and sources, providing insights into water quality, consumption patterns, and infrastructure performance. This data-driven approach enhances decision-making and resource allocation.
• Efficiency and Sustainability: software enables utilities and organizations to optimize water distribution networks, reducing leaks, minimizing energy consumption, and enhancing overall efficiency. This contributes to sustainable water use and conservation, especially in regions with water scarcity issues.
• Predictive Maintenance: predictive maintenance algorithms within water management software can anticipate equipment failures, such as pumps and pipelines, reducing downtime, preventing costly repairs, and ensuring uninterrupted water supply to consumers.
• Response to Emergencies: during water-related emergencies like floods, software can aid in real-time monitoring and control of water infrastructure, helping authorities respond promptly to mitigate damage and ensure public safety.
• Regulatory Compliance: water management software assists in meeting regulatory requirements for water quality and safety. It helps in reporting and compliance with environmental standards, ensuring that water resources remain safe for consumption.

The significance of software in water management lies in its ability to enhance efficiency, promote sustainability, ensure water quality, and respond to evolving challenges in the water sector, ultimately contributing to the responsible and effective stewardship of this essential resource.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt in the past decade providing technology solutions to users in the water sector?

Democratization of software technology and data is key to maximum impact: more people using software solutions is better than an elite few

The number one lesson I’ve learned is that it is not about the software, no matter how impressive it is, it is about the water professionals, the people, who adopt the technology to provide a better outcome to their communities.  There is immense pride in the water sector because of the civilization-enabling nature of the work – we all depend on water and the people who manage water every day, everywhere in the world.  Sometimes the weight of that responsibility leads to slow adoption of new things (perhaps seen as risky) but more and more, the people in the water sector are stepping up and implementing sophisticated software systems that make all of our lives better.

Scalability and integration are important considerations for water utilities. What factors should organizations keep in mind when selecting software solutions to meet their specific needs and grow with their operations?

When selecting software solutions for water utilities, several factors should be considered:

• Scalability: ensure the software can adapt to changing needs and accommodate growth in infrastructure and water demand.
• Data integration: choose software that can integrate with existing systems and sensors for efficient data collection and analysis.
• Ease of use: user-friendly interfaces are essential for staff to quickly adapt to and utilize the software effectively.
• Security: prioritize cybersecurity to safeguard against potential threats to critical infrastructure.
• Regulatory compliance: ensure the software meets industry standards and regulatory requirements for water quality and safety.
• Customer support: opt for vendors offering reliable customer support and maintenance services.
• Future-proofing: select software that embraces emerging technologies and can adapt to industry advancements.

What key learnings are you sharing with Envirosuite from your experience at Autodesk and Innovyze?

Of course, I’m sharing the number one lesson I mentioned above, that software providers must connect with industry professionals and enable them to do their jobs better.  There is no business without achieving that objective. 

I also share the concept that the democratization of software technology and data is key to maximum impact. That is something important that I learned at Autodesk – more people using software solutions is better than an elite few.

Finally, water management is a worldwide necessity, but local adaptation is usually needed because the environmental regulations are different from state to state, country to country, and even city to city sometimes.  So, we have to focus on areas of the world where we understand the needs.

What attracted you to Envirosuite and what interested you about their technology?

Professional-grade software is more secure than the average utility or public agency creating their own software and computing environments

Envirosuite appealed to me for the same reasons I joined the Environmental Modelling Research Lab so many years ago – I reckon that applying software technology to complex environmental problems is the best way to understand and ultimately solve those problems.

EnviroSuite is a comprehensive environmental management software platform designed to help organizations effectively monitor, analyse, and optimize their environmental performance. This innovative software provides real-time data integration from various environmental sensors, enabling users to make informed decisions about air quality, water quality, noise, weather, and other environmental factors. EnviroSuite's predictive modelling and analytics capabilities empower users to proactively address environmental issues, respond to incidents, and meet regulatory compliance requirements. It is widely used in industries such as wastewater treatment, mining, manufacturing, and agriculture to enhance sustainability, reduce environmental risks, and ensure the well-being of surrounding communities. I love being involved with a company that plays a crucial role in supporting organizations' efforts to achieve their environmental and sustainability goals.

By the way, I also loved the opportunity to get back to an Australian company – after working and living in Australia in the past.

What is your vision for Envirosuite’s water solutions in the global market?

My vision for Envirosuite’s solutions, all of them not just the water solutions, is to harness the power of environmental intelligence so industries grow sustainably and communities thrive.

Data security and privacy are major concerns in the digital age. How does Envirosuite ensure the safety and integrity of the data it collects and manages for its clients?

As infrastructure ages, digital twins offer cost-effective solutions by simulating scenarios and predicting maintenance needs

Data security in the water utility sector is of paramount importance. As utilities increasingly rely on digital systems and IoT devices for water management, the need to protect sensitive information becomes critical. Ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of data is essential to prevent cyber threats and safeguard critical infrastructure. Robust cybersecurity measures are imperative to defend against data breaches, unauthorized access, and potential disruptions to water supply systems. As a dedicated software developer and provider to the industry, Envirosuite employs a highly qualified team who understand the security environment in a rapidly changing computing environment.  That’s why professional-grade software is more secure than the average utility or public agency creating their own software and computing environments.

In your opinion, what are the key factors that will drive the adoption and success of digital twin technology in the water sector, and how is Envirosuite positioned to lead in this regard?

I believe the need for improved efficiency and sustainability pushes utilities to optimize their operations, which digital twins facilitate through data-driven insights. Additionally, regulatory compliance demands accurate monitoring, which digital twins can provide in real-time. Finally, as aging infrastructure requires maintenance and upgrades, digital twins offer cost-effective solutions by simulating scenarios and predicting maintenance needs. Envirosuite has been building and delivering digital twin solutions for many years.

Looking ahead, what trends and innovations do you anticipate will shape the future of the water infrastructure software market, and how can organizations prepare to leverage these advancements effectively?

The public is more demanding of wise investment in environmental sustainability and is more demanding in terms of service delivery

I think the trend toward real-time intelligence enabling optimal decision-making will continue to accelerate. Individuals are demanding more and more transparency into their personal impact on the environment. The public in general is more demanding of wise investment in environmental sustainability and is more demanding in terms of service delivery. This means that water industry professionals will need solutions that enable real-time data collection and analysis, enable optimal decision-making and decision-justification reporting, and enable granular reporting to individuals or organizations. 

Organizations can prepare by preparing their people to think as digital natives. Then incrementally adopting data gathering technology in water systems, applying simulation and prediction analytics, and public reporting.