August 26, 2026

From Data to Decisions: How Utilities Can Unlock Smarter Water Management

From Data to Decisions: How Utilities Can Unlock Smarter Water Management

Across the U.S., water utilities face a growing challenge: aging infrastructure, rising costs, and mounting pressure to reduce non-revenue water (NRW). With more than two million miles of water pipes in service—many decades old—the risk of leaks and breaks is higher than ever. The question isn’t whether failures will happen, but when. And for utilities, timing is everything. 

The Data Dilemma

Utilities already collect vast amounts of data—pipe material, installation dates, soil conditions, pressure readings, and even acoustic signals. But raw data alone doesn’t solve problems. Without the right tools, this information remains fragmented and underutilized, leaving utilities reactive instead of proactive. 

Turning Data into Action

That’s where CivilSense™ comes in. Developed by Oldcastle Infrastructure, CivilSense™ transforms complex network data into clear, actionable insights. Using advanced machine learning models, CivilSense™ analyzes dozens of variables—such as historical failure patterns, climate conditions, and proximity to critical assets—to predict which pipes are most likely to fail. 

This predictive intelligence empowers utilities to: 

  • Prioritize Repairs: Focus resources on high-risk assets before they break. 
  • Reduce Non-Revenue Water: Identify leaks early and prevent costly water loss. 
  • Optimize Capital Planning: Make informed decisions about replacements and upgrades. 
  • Extend Asset Life: Shift from emergency fixes to long-term infrastructure strategies. 

The Power of Predictive Analytics

CivilSense™ doesn’t just forecast failures—it provides a comprehensive risk profile for each pipe, combining likelihood and consequence into a single measure of business risk exposure. This means utilities can align maintenance plans with budget priorities, regulatory requirements, and community needs. 

When paired with real-time acoustic leak detection, CivilSense™ delivers a complete solution: reports detailing the sizes and precise locations of active leaks, and predictive insights for future risks. Together, these capabilities help utilities move from costly, reactive firefighting to efficient, proactive asset management. 

Smarter Water Management Starts Here

Data is only valuable when it drives decisions. With CivilSense™, utilities can finally harness the full potential of their network data—reducing water loss, saving money, and protecting communities. 

Ready to see how predictive analytics can transform your water management strategy?

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