In this first session we will analyze which are the main steps suggested to effectively implement a smart digital solution for managing a water distribution network, in terms of having (at the end of the journey) a complete decision support system that will allow the Water Utility to effectively optimize the performances of their assets. A progressive approach is suggested here as a key aspect to consider also taking into account the pre-existing automation or monitoring systems like e.g., a SCADA or a DCS to integrate as data sources for implementing an intelligent data lake. The steps explained will be:

• Discovery: analysis of  which are the available (and reliable) data needed to perform a critical analysis, in order to determine if a temporary monitoring campaign is needed (e.g., if few permanent instruments are available or calibration for flows, pressures, or water quality is needed).
• Implementation: define and execute the implementation tasks according to the outcomes of previous step. The pieces of information collected during the Discovery workshops will be used to decide which are the SW modules needed by the Customer.
• Expansion: evaluate (after previous steps’ outcomes and related Utility’s feedback) how to furtherly evolve the decision support system scope, according to particular scenarios (both in terms of architecture and in terms of scalability).