Smart solutions for a smarter future – How Big Data and AI can help transform into a data-driven organization

As organizations continue to transform business and look at new technologies, AI and sustainability look to be the driving force for businesses to make critical decisions and chalk out their sustainability footprint. The transformation is not restricted to a specific industry alone. Today, businesses are becoming smarter and sharper, thanks to the infuse of AI and Big Data.

One such example where AI and sustainability can provide value and can open up new possibilities is within the water management sector. Capgemini is collaborating with Flemish water companies Farys, Pidpa and De Watergroep to leverage the power of big data, AI, and smart metering to build efficient and sustainable water solutions.

At the upcoming SAP NOW event, to be held on October 3 at Skyhall, Brussels Airport, Capgemini Belgium along with their partner Farys are set to highlight an exciting presentation – ‘Moving to Data-driven insights and decision-making using SAP Datasphere and SAP AI Core.’ This session will look at how Farys is shaping up to take maximum advantage of Big Data, turning data into value and business actions. Even for professionals beyond the water industry, this session will provide exciting takeaways for effectively managing big data and AI-driven solutions.

To gain more insights into the session, we interviewed Kevin De Wilde – Utilities Thought Leader, Capgemini Belgium and Inge Opreel, IT Director, Farys on the impact of big data and AI within the water industry.

What inspired the collaboration between Farys, Pidpa, De Watergroep, and Capgemini?

Inge Opreel:

This collaboration within the Flemish water sector was born from our collective need to address sustainability and innovation. We were all running individual pilots on smart metering, but it became clear that pooling our resources, knowledge, and expertise would be far more effective. We could address common challenges like connectivity and battery issues that proved to be a roadblock during our initial tests. Farys was already ahead in developing an IoT platform with Capgemini, so it took the lead on the IT infrastructure. Capgemini supported the project by implementing the necessary functionalities for smart metering.

What can attendees expect from your presentation at SAP NOW?

Inge Opreel:

Attendees would discover the key lessons we have gathered in handling vast amounts of data from smart water systems. We would also discuss the importance of data reliability and trustworthiness, and how crucial it is from an AI perspective. Attendees can look forward to gaining insights on effectively managing and scale data projects right from the pilot to full deployment, making sure business objectives are met.

How do you see AI and smart metering evolving within the water management industry?

Kevin De Wilde:

The potential is vast. While the Big Data use cases are currently focused on smart metering in households and the water network, the principles can be applied to various industrial IoT use cases. To give an example, we are already working on monitoring water quality using sensors throughout the drinking water network, which can be managed by AI more effectively. In other areas, where IoT and big data are the key, similar approaches can be applied as well. AI will continue to play a significant role in enhancing these systems, right from predicting water production needs and managing quality issues.

Within the water management industry, how does AI and sustainability make an impact?

Inge Opreel:

Smart meters are instrumental in creating a sustainable drinking water network. With AI, there is a possibility to get real-time data, track leaks, hereby reducing water loss and ensuring resources are used efficiently. This not just benefits water companies alone but also have a significant social impact as it empowers customers to monitor and adjust their water usage. We are also at an early stage where we are looking at AI and machine learning to predict potential leaks and alert customers, enhancing both our sustainable and operational efficiency.

For those considering attending SAP NOW, what value or unique insights they will gain from joining?

Kevin De Wilde:

Our session is not just about smart meters; it is about the broader aspects of big data management and AI. So, attendees would discover the deeper understanding of the governance and processes needed to manage and successfully execute big data projects and implement effective solutions. For anyone who is interested in big data and AI, we will also be sharing our approach to managing a data stream, ensuring data reliability, and converting that data into actionable business goals and insights. This makes the session relevant to all sectors and not merely water management alone.

Inge Opreel:

There needs to be a well-thought strategy when it comes to working with big data and AI. From handling complex datasets, ensuring data reliability, and achieving business trust, our session will cover everything and more, including the steps to move from pilot projects to full-scale implementation that deliver real business value.

Interested to know the key takeaways from Capgemini Belgium’s participation at SAP NOW?