In an industry where time is money, having software that provides data in an efficient manner can help professionals save time and money. Currently, the software used is borrowed from other industries, leaving gaps within the industry. With the water industry being pushed to the sidelines, it is no surprise that software in the industry lacks the ability to provide information in an efficient manner. Although many companies do provide solutions that are often transferred (with some difficulty) to the water and wastewater industries, there is generic software initially offered that is designed specifically for other industries such a soil and gas, energy, construction, etc.
The importance of having software designed specifically for your water processing equipment could potentially save you thousands of dollars along with time and overall energy, especially with the numerous remote sites integral to most municipal water processing systems. Physically inspecting pumping stations and other remote or underground sites leads to challenges with efficiency and productivity. Replacements are costly and if neglected can lead to uncontrolled overflow of wastewater and leave lasting damage to the environment and community. For example, emergency replacement of a faulty lift station pump can cost between $50,000-$75,000.
When looking at what is needed to create successful software for the industry there are three main elements that need to be incorporated. The three pillars that are needed to be kept in mind in order to create software specifically for the water and wastewater industries. First and foremost, the software should be developed with the sole purpose of being for the use of water professionals. The current path of the software being developed by programmers who don’t have experience in the industry is no longer working and it is crucial to the effectiveness of the software to be created by individuals who have firsthand knowledge of the industry.
The next pillar to ensure success is making sure there is a platform that helps both water managers and water operators in doing their job. The software also needs to connect disparate systems to support employees instead of adding tasks. This also allows professionals to access information about the pipes without having to physically be there. With the evolvment in technology, it is crucial for the industry to embrace the benefits rather than being hesitant about it.
Lastly, it is important to make sure there is software that allows the linking of data across the catchment and utility teams. With multiple different teams being able to access all the data, it allows for everyone to be on the same page. By linking the data there is more cohesion within the company along, especially with different departments.
By having all of the data information in a centralized place over a field spot check, it saves labor and time. There is also a benefit in that there are warnings before a problem arises and you get notified through notifications, alerts, and alarms. This can include anything from increase flows, pressure, and current (electrical) fluctuations, filter and membrane clogs, power losses, and other equipment issues or failures.
STREAMETRIC Remote, the newest addition to the STREAMETRIC platform developed specifically for the water industry allows professionals to have all the data needed to stay updated with the status and health of each remote lift station, pump, water tower, underground tank and other remote operations without having to physically do inspections and before costly damage occurs. With the predictive maintenance that our software provides, you are able to follow maintenance intervals and set alarms for problematic conditions.
Interested in saving time and money? Click here to speak to one of our experts about what STREAMETRIC can do for you.