Guiding a utilities department to asset management best practice

Palm Beach County - Asset Management Improvement Program

Asset management describes how organizations manage their assets, in a way that derives as much value as possible over their entire life cycle. The Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department (PCBWUD) engaged us to help them in their efforts to achieve best practice in their asset management.

To support this goal, we’ve assessed the PCBWUD ‘s asset management approach and developed a strategic roadmap toward asset management best practice. This includes organizational arrangements defining asset management roles and responsibilities. We’ve also supported the development of their asset management policy, their objectives, and strategic asset management plan. To measure progress, we undertook interim ISO 55001 assessments. PCBWUD obtained ISO 55001 certification in 2021, renewed in 2024, becoming the first water utility in North America to achieve the ISO 55001 certification.

Currently, we are taking PBCWUD to beyond the ISO maturity scale in advancing their asset management practices. We’re also identifying and implementing asset management leading practices across the organization.

By defining and overseeing the progress toward asset management leading practices, at a pace that is right for the organization, we’re empowering them to deliver tangible and demonstrable improvements. These improvements include reduced risk, enhanced decision making, effective operational improvements, and consistently reliable services.

Ultimately, these efforts will help PBCWUD solidify their position as a leading water utility and elevate the quality of services provided for their customers.