Introduction

In today’s economy, finding ways to “do more with less” extends to virtually every business, government and education institution. Plain and simple, the days of “business as usual” are a thing of the past as economic and social pressures mandate more efficiency, accountability and performance. The water and wastewater industry has adopted lean principles – leveraging new technology and processes to modernize the industry. This case study illustrates lean principles that water and wastewater facilities can incorporate into their daily operations to “do more with less” in the face of ever-changing regulations and tight budget constraints.

Putting Lean Operations In Effect: A Real World Look From The Eyes Of United Water

In effort to maintain its focus as a world-class operation, United Water has adopted an enterprise data management system for implementing Lean Operations throughout its locations. This case study offers a real world example of how incorporating lean principles is beginning to have a major impact on the water utility’s operating efficiencies. Headquartered in Harrington Park, New Jersey, United Water has been treating water for more than 140 years. Founded in 1869, the company provides water and wastewater treatment services to more than 300 municipalities and 7 million people across the United States. While the size of the facilities it owns or operates varies from quite small to among the largest in the world, one driving concept is consistent from project-to-project: United Water is focused on managing world-class environmental compliance and a quality management system, so it can fulfill its mission of providing comprehensive, sustainable water and wastewater management solutions that promote public, economic and environmental health.