Case Study — IWR
Collaborative Framework & Tools
to Drive Industrial Water Re-use
Bridging the industry–agency culture gap with a practical roadmap for shared success
Our Response
In contrast to the conventional research reports the foundation was known for, Transform proposed development of a graphically-driven resource guide that would provide the first “how-to” roadmap for industrial water re-use projects. The guide would be shared with private companies and public water agencies in order to better align their respective efforts on behalf of water sustainability. An addendum focused on case studies, technical requirements and lessons learned.
Execution
Following surveys and interviews with a variety of stakeholders in previously completed projects, Rich pinpointed a set of culture gaps that led to breakdowns between private and public sector constituencies. He also saw an opportunity to “cross pollinate” knowledge from capital project management for the central element of the guide, a best-practice stage-gate lifecycle process. Included were key concepts, business rationale, details on phase activities, milestones, deliverables, decisions, communications and other required elements for successful delivery of IWR projects.
Results
Since its release, this groundbreaking resource guide has been used worldwide in workshops and webinars to foster more productive collaboration among owners of industrial facilities, public water agencies, regulatory bodies and municipalities. To jumpstart their efforts, teams download the IWR Project Charter template to develop and document a comprehensive, shared understanding of each project from the outset.
The guide continues to play a role in the ongoing education and outreach of the Industrial Watereuse Foundation, driving a steady increase in the annual amount of water being recycled by manufacturing and processing plants around the globe.