The Water Information Management Steering Group (ie ‘WIMS’ Group) has been formed following a requirement from the water sector within NZ territorial local authorities for a more consistent approach to information collection and management across the country. The success of the RIMS group in the roading sector has provided an example of the tangible benefits of consistent approaches to information management and represents a good model for the WIMS group.

Purpose

The purpose of the WIMS group is to lead, promote and develop best practice in water information management and the use of computerised systems and tools that advance asset management in the drinking water, waste water and storm water sectors of New Zealand’s territorial local authorities.

Objectives

 The objectives shall be:

i)      To encourage the use and availability of best practice asset management information systems in NZ that:

(a)   deliver accurate, timely and relevant information to enable the optimal targeting of investment in water infrastructure.

(b)   meet asset management information needs.

(c)   prove that agreed service levels are being achieved.

ii)     To focus on the development of strategic level, best practice models, providing advice to territorial local authorities on the options available to them in selecting the most cost effective, least risk system solutions that best meet their business needs

iii)    To focus on the application of the NAMS guidelines in the water sector

iv)    To pursue, consider and where appropriate facilitate the acquisition of specific systems or templates in the interests of achieving nationally cost effective solutions that advance objective i)

v)    To avoid duplication and to seek cooperative development with others where value can be added

vi)    To promote information sharing within the industry

vii)   To deliver training that promotes the objectives of the group and up skills the industry

INGENIUM                  Don Young, Waimakariri DC