Distribution Systems: Has Asset Management Made a Difference?

Abstract

Successful management of water distribution systems will rise in importance as more people gain access to piped water globally. While much research about the management of these systems has been completed, public concern about their safety and reliability is unabated. This paper probes whether research and policy attention has made a significant difference in the use of asset management and improved condition of distribution systems in the United States. Three streams of evidence are used: a review of research and policy reports, findings by the Asset Management Committee of the American Water Works Association, and a survey of utilities, with case studies. There are ample technologies to support asset management, but they are not employed effectively by many utilities. Well-funded utilities can implement sophisticated levels of asset management, but smaller utilities cannot take on many of these activities. The committee found a lack of commitment to asset management and that states are not promoting it aggressively. The survey reached similar conclusions and indicated that an alternative and simpler framework that uses ongoing utility activities might be accepted.