All the facilities were operated and controlled separately, therefore efficient O&M was not possible, nor immediate actions for emergencies. Besides, customers begun to require improved service with immediate actions. Therefore, K-water completed the integrated operation center in 2007, and the whole systems are monitored and controlled at this center with least number of operators at each facility. As an SOE, this approach was more for the public satisfaction rather than decreasing the cost.
Also, the facilities are databased through GIS, with real-time data collection and automatic detection for leakage/alarm system. Therefore, immediate detection and actions are possible for any possible trouble for water supply, currently. In addition, water flow and pressure data are constantly collected and simulated to predict future accident. This simulation also support the decision-making for replacement or rehabilitation of the facilities.
The integrated operation center is a state-of-the-art ICT based smart water system. However, it is limited to the point of a supplier and an operator of the facilities for efficient O&M. Some part of the extremely low ratio of the direct tap-water drinking is due to invisible distrust on the water supply system. Therefore, K-water is trying to open the water supply information to the public through electronic display on the street and/or smartphone application. A pilot project based on a concession agreement with a local government successfully increased the ratio from approximate 1% to 25% by similar approach. At the same time, Water-NET programs are developing continuously by the enhancement of various functions, which are needed for the efficient operation and management.