Build, Survive, Thrive: The Adaptable Utility Challenge
A hands-on simulation exploring the evolution of the modern water utility.
Designed and Facilitated by: Naisargi Dave, Hydraulic Modeler (HDR) & member of the RiSWP Leadership Team
Utilities must constantly adapt to changing conditions: climate pressures, resource constraints, aging infrastructure, financial uncertainty, and evolving customer expectations. This highly interactive simulation workshop places participants in the role of utility leaders responsible for building a water system that must evolve and adapt over time.
Working in teams representing global cities with unique constraints, participants will progress through the five layers of the smart water journey, from physical infrastructure to sensors, connectivity, data platforms, and predictive tools, while responding to disruptions along the way. Stakeholder “residents” will evaluate decisions based on trust and service outcomes, reinforcing the importance of communication alongside technical performance.
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AGENDA
Meet the Rising Smart Water Professionals (RiSWP) community and connect with fellow young professionals and industry leaders. Learn how the RiSWP network supports collaboration, mentorship, and innovation across the global water sector.
An overview of the challenge and the role participants will play as leaders of evolving water utilities. Teams will be introduced to the concept of the smart water maturity journey and how utilities develop capabilities across infrastructure, data, and decision-making.
Simulation Round 1: Foundations to Connectivity (Layers 1–3)
Teams representing different global cities begin building and operating their utilities using limited information and resources. As the simulation progresses, new capabilities are introduced, from basic physical infrastructure to sensing and system connectivity, allowing teams to respond more effectively to emerging challenges.
Simulation Round 2: Data to Predictive Intelligence (Layers 4–5)
Utilities unlock more advanced digital capabilities, including data insights and predictive tools. Teams will make strategic investment decisions while navigating unexpected disruptions, balancing operational performance, financial constraints, and community trust.
Rapid Fire Recap & Group Reflections
Each team shares key decisions, lessons learned, and how their utility responded to evolving pressures. A fast-paced reflection on what worked, what didn’t, and why adaptability matters.
Final Takeaways & Closing
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