Results immediately – or information-based network management?

Water utilities want to get immediate results from measurements, and then control network problems immediately. This is a completely understandable and good goal in reactive management– concrete observations confirm that the measurement systems are working and the right things are happening in the network.

At the same time, however, it is worth remembering that network management is above all proactive, long-term, information-based decision-making. Individual measurements or quick results alone are not enough, but the management has to be seen as systematic ever lasting process.

This proactive approach enables:

- investment decisions to be based on high-quality knowledge management,

- the need for network investments can be justified transparently,

- then the solutions will withstand scrutiny even after years.

At the same time, good network management does not end when the investment has been made. It is also essential to assess what impact effective measures have had on reducing leakage and achievieng the neefed quality of service. This not only develops one's own operations, but also increases trust in decision-making - within the organization and beyond.

In short: measurements can be used to achieve quick wins, but long-term success comes from high-quality knowledge basred management.