Event: SWAN (Smart Water Networks Forum) Annual Conference 2023

Date: May 2023

Location: Glasgow, UK

Type of CPD: Workshop organiser / digital water leadership / innovation facilitation

Duration: Full‑day conference participation + workshop delivery

Summary of the Event

I attended the SWAN Annual Conference 2023 in Glasgow, a leading international event focused on digital transformation, smart water networks, real‑time monitoring and data‑driven operations. The conference brought together utilities, technology innovators, researchers, regulators and digital specialists to explore the latest advancements in smart water systems.

I served as a Workshop Organiser, designing and facilitating a session focused on real‑time biological monitoring, microbial activity sensing and the integration of biological data into digital water platforms. The workshop provided a structured environment for utilities and technology partners to explore practical deployment challenges, innovation pathways and opportunities for digital optimisation.

My Contribution: Workshop Organiser

Workshop Title: Biological Insight in Smart Water Networks: Real‑Time Monitoring for Predictive Operations

Key elements delivered:

• Designed and facilitated a technical workshop for utilities, innovators and digital specialists.
• Introduced the scientific and operational foundations of microbial activity sensing and its role in smart networks.
• Led discussions on integrating biological data into digital twins, analytics platforms and automated alert systems.
• Presented case studies demonstrating improved operational outcomes through real‑time biological monitoring.
• Facilitated breakout groups exploring deployment challenges, data governance, interoperability and scaling strategies.
• Captured insights and recommendations to support future SWAN working group activity.

Key Themes Covered

Environmental performance and resilience Using real‑time data to improve water quality, reduce risk and support regulatory outcomes.

Smart water networks and digital transformation Data integration, automation, digital twins and predictive analytics.

Real‑time sensing technologies Biological, chemical and physical sensors for operational optimisation.

Data governance and interoperability Ensuring data quality, accessibility and integration across platforms.

Utility digital maturity Skills, culture and capability required for successful digital adoption.

Innovation pathways Pilots, validation, procurement and scaling of new technologies.