Distribution System Optimization Program

In 2007 the Partnership for Safe Water and the Water Research Foundation developed a project to help distribution systems optimize operations. Modeled after the treatment program, membership in the distribution program ensures that water quality improvements can be measured and validated over time.

How the Distribution System Optimization Program works

Distribution systems in the Partnership for Safe Water program demonstrate that they are continuously committed to optimization. Participating systems can benchmark their performance in relation to other utilities in their region and across North America. All distribution systems that add a residual disinfectant and are interested in improving performance are invited to participate in the program.

Learn More about the Program's Benefits (PDF)

The Distribution System Optimization Program is based on Four Distinct Phases:

Phase I: Commitment

Distribution systems commit to engaging staff in data collection, self-assessment and optimization.

Program Overview (PDF)

Phase II: Baseline & Annual Data Collection

Systems collect disinfectant data for annual submission. The data is included in the Partnership for Safe Water Annual Report.

Getting Started Information (PDF)
Baseline Data Requirements (PDF)

Phase III: Self-Assessment

The Phase III Self Assessment Completion Report is required to receive the Directors Award. Learn how utilities prioritize and focus their report; and, access the checklist to better understand report elements:

Prioritizing and Focusing (PDF)
Phase III Checklist (PDF)

* Prior to beginning a Phase III self-assessment, please contact Partnership at partnership@awwa.org or call 303.347.6207

** Note about developing the self-assessment process and report:
It is very important to note that Phase III is a process that focuses on active participation of as many utility staff as possible to conduct a thorough and candid self-assessment. The ultimate goal is identification of factors limiting optimal performance; and, development of associated action plans to feasibly address these performance limiting factors in a timely fashion.

This report is provided because it is an excellent example of the outputs and outcomes of the previously described self-assessment process; however, it is not intended to provide an example of optimal distribution system operational procedures or modes of operation.

Phase IV: Optimized Performance

The Phase IV Excellence in Distribution System Optimization Award recognizes utilities that have achieved the highest level of optimization and are committed to continuous improvement.

Please review new award requirements for the Presidents and Excellence awards:

Reporting Data

Utility participants are required to report data and information as part of their annual submission.

Directors & Presidents Awards

The Directors and Presidents Awards for the Distribution System Optimization Program focus on self-assessment and continuous improvement planning. Directors Award recipients are selected based on the merits of the Phase III Completion Report, not solely on numerical results.

Partnership for Safe Water volunteers review reports and confer awards, highlighting the system's outstanding performance and commitment to the community and regulators. Discover the utilities that have been recognized for outstanding water distribution system performance.