The use of GIS for analysis of water distribution networks

Water companies have digitalised their underground assets, meaning that analyses based on geographical information come into perspective. In this paper the potential of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for the analysis of the water distribution networks is described and in three case studies the practical implications are investigated. The cases are related to identifying PE-mains in polluted soil, identifying mains with higher water temperature and selecting candidate mains for replacement. GIS can play a major role in improving the analysis. However, a systematic methodology of the analysis, including the preparation and testing of data, needs considerable attention. Although geographical data becomes more and more accessible, a large gap between the required and available data still remains.