A new partnership to develop standardised data exchange across the global water industry has been announced by not-for-profit cross-sector forum BIM4Water and connected data platform Datum360.
Using Datum360’s software platform, the initiative will initially focus on allowing water utility companies and their supply chain partners to collaborate on the creation streamlined product data templates.
These templates offer the potential to standardise information exchange processes across the global water industry, deliver product data as expected at key stages of a project and establish the required data formats to ensure interoperability.
BIM4Water and Datum360 are aiming to launch the platform in the second quarter of 2024.
Standardisation across the water industry
The platform aims to establish a universal information requirement standard that enables consistent data exchange and interoperability in the water sector anywhere in the world, fostering the seamless flow of information between stakeholders.
Owners and operators will be able to collate data about their assets in a standardised way that is used consistently by other water companies, as well as their supply chains, supporting more effective asset management.
BIM4Water said the vision is to open the platform up beyond individual companies and sectors for collaboration across the entire water industry and leveraging other sector initiatives, such as CFIHOS.
Water utility companies can join the initiative free of charge. Organisations can register with BIM4Water or contact Datum360 to stay informed.
BIM4Water was set up in 2013 with a mission to lead the digital transformation of the water sector through Better Information Management. It is open to all organisations involved in the management and delivery of water and wastewater assets, including clients, contractors, consultants, suppliers, subcontractors and other bodies.
It comprises nine Task Groups, supported by a Steering Group. They include: the Owner-Operators Group; 4D Group; Data Quality, Security & Governance; Skills; the Water Data Task Force; Standard Libraries Group; Water Industry Classification Hierarchy Standards; the Case Studies Group; and the Communication & Engagement Group.
