Client
Anglian Water
Domain
Energy & Utilities
Service
Data
Date
Sept 2025
Enabling better, swifter decision-making through ontology and an integrated system
What kept them up at night:
Anglian Water's data landscape presented us with a complex puzzle—no integrated view of the entire asset network existed. This fragmentation wasn't just a technical hurdle; it was holding back our collective ability to deliver integrated planning, AI predictive maintenance, and sophisticated scenario modelling that would unlock AMP8 ambitions and beyond.
Previous attempts to bridge these siloed databases had hit the same walls repeatedly. The challenge wasn't simply technical—it was cultural and structural. Different teams had developed their own naming conventions, creating a Tower of Babel effect where the same critical assets were described in completely different ways across systems. We needed a breakthrough that could unite these disparate identities into a single, common understanding.
How we helped:
Rather than accepting traditional limitations, we chose to reimagine what's possible. The Transform team, collaborating closely with Asset Intelligence, pioneered an innovative approach that would change how Anglian Water thinks about asset data forever.
We embraced "knowledge graph" technology—a revolutionary departure from conventional database methods that allows us to describe assets not just as isolated entities, but as interconnected components within dynamic systems. This wasn't just about data engineering; it was about creating a new understanding.
Our breakthrough came through developing a comprehensive ontology paired with universal identifiers, creating a common language that every team could speak whilst maintaining their familiar terms. We built bespoke analytical tools that didn't just overcome existing limitations-they solved wider issues in data quality and specificity.
Working in rapid four-month agile sprints, we maintained relentless focus on delivering maximum value whilst continuously validating our progress with stakeholders. This wasn't just development; it was collaborative innovation at its finest.
The difference it made:
The results speak to the power of visionary thinking combined with practical execution:
- Unprecedented connectivity: We've achieved something previously impossible—complete visibility from sewerage inflows through treatment to final effluent outfall, delivering that genuine end-to-end network performance view that teams have long envisioned.
- Intelligent data integration: Individual sensor datapoints now connect directly to specific equipment in our asset database, transforming raw data into actionable intelligence that teams can actually use.
- Quality through unity: Cross-verification capabilities between previously siloed systems are driving data quality improvements across harmonised applications, creating a virtuous cycle of continuous enhancement.
- Foundation for the future: Most importantly, we've proven that creating a unified view of the entire estate isn't just feasible—it's achievable, scalable, and transformative.
This groundbreaking work enables Anglian Water to make better, swifter decisions across every ODI.
Together, we've built more than a technical solution—we've created the foundation for a smarter, more connected future.
Transform swiftly grasped the complexities...their technical skill and creative agility allowed for significant ground to be covered in limited time...and laid the foundations for a full implementation.
Learn more
Our work in Energy & Water extends beyond this project. If you’re interested in hearing more about our wider experience, please get in touch.