In 2008, Global Omnium recognised the need for digital transformation to create a more cost-effective and efficient meter reading process. In the first phase of its transformation, the company added portable meters with wireless proximity communications. Then came drive-by meters, which accelerated the reading process, but required highly optimised driving routes.
In the final phase, Global Omnium implemented smart meters with IoT capabilities, capable of sharing data directly with the utility's databases. The company, which now manages more than 700,000 smart meters, strategically chose meter vendors with open source and non-proprietary data sharing protocols. However, new ways of collecting meter data were only one aspect of Global Omnium's digital transformation.
Integrating meter data into one platform
With its upgrade to smart meters, Global Omnium needed a platform to record, restructure and store consumer data, and turn it into business intelligence. To achieve this, the company decided to develop its own software and analytics platform, GoAigua.
Data means nothing if it can't be turned into information,’ said Jaime Barba Sevillano, CEO of Idrica and Director of Disruptive Innovation and Digital Transformation at Global Omnium
The platform for success is now provided by Idrica, which partnered with Xylem to combine Idrica's proven technology with Xylem's expertise and global collaboration and consultation solutions in the water sector. Xylem Vue powered by GoAigua includes Xylem's portfolio of digital solutions for water utilities and is data independent. The platform enables water and wastewater utilities to connect and manage their digital assets and streamline operations with a simple, secure and holistic view.
“And it is this fundamental distinction between the raw consumer data, which is collected by smart meters and stored in Global Omnium's databases, and the information, i.e. what the company actually uses that data for, that is at the heart of its digital transformation drive.”
Designing new solutions based on consumption data
With the platform, Global Omnium can integrate real-time and historical consumption data from each customer into a single point. This allows the company to implement cutting-edge solutions, such as:
- A machine learning algorithm to forecast demand;
- An internal leak detection system;
- An alarm system to detect unusual consumption patterns.
Global Omnium's innovations have not only saved water, but also reduced customer complaints by up to 60%.
The company's digital transformation has positioned it as a leader in the European water sector, helping it to win public tenders and gain the trust of customers. Global Omnium's success demonstrates the transformative power of smart meters when integrated with advanced data analytics, and how actionable insights from data can drive innovation and efficiency in the water sector.
Read the original news in iAgua.
