The main objective of the Action is to increase the knowledge and to promote the use of effective, scientifically robust and well devised methodologies for decision-making based on the use of performance indicators for urban infrastructure services, able to attract utilities to use them as routine management tools.
Based on the use of the existing PI systems for water supply and wastewater services, a specific objective is the establishment of effective, scientifically robust and well devised interpretation methodologies for better use of multidimensional (and frequently conflicting) performance information.
Another specific objective is the definition of research priorities regarding the integration of performance measures into other engineering tools, as referred to in the previous section. The third specific objective is to promote the use of performance indicators as a routine management tool in other areas of urban infrastructures, using the sector of solid waste as a case study.
For the scientific community: The process of creating effective decision-making tools, based on the interpretation algorithms/methods of performance measures, requires a multidisciplinary and multi-viewpoint brainstorming analysis. Conversely, performance indicators are particularly suitable for the establishment of new links between different areas of knowledge related to decisionmaking tools. The research publications and the discussions during the meetings of the COST network (that can be resumed further along in web-based discussion groups) will feed each other’s projects and will lead to better results. Direct links with the industry will allow for a better knowledge of their aspirations, and practical application shortcomings and benefits, therefore leading to continuous adaptation of the research conducted in the real world.
For the water industry and other urban infrastructure services: The results that are expected from this COST Action will be directed to cover the needs of the utilities, and even manufacturers and consultants, key potential users of effective performance assessment tools. On the one hand, integrated performance assessment tools are needed to cope with the increasing complexity of the utility management and the need for creative approaches. On the other hand, these tools allow for efficient and effective communication between the various levels of the utility internal hierarchy.
For regulators, self-regulating bodies and other authorities: With the increasing participation of the private sector in the water industry, the traditional management role of public authorities moves to a new regulatory role on the one hand. The establishment of effective regulation mechanisms is a major challenge in many European countries. The results of this Action are expected to contribute to achieving this target. On the other hand, existing self-management and self-regulation systems based on the division of responsibilities between legislative and supervising authority and the water supply industry, will also benefit from powerful performance assessment and decision support tools. Conversely, policy makers are also potential users of more effective performance assessment tools.
For other stakeholders: Financing bodies can benefit from assistance in assessing investment priorities, project selection and follow-up. For customers, for the media, and for the public in general, an effective performance assessment methodology provides the means of translating complex processes into simple-to-understand information and of transmitting a measure of the quality of service provided. Other stakeholders (e.g. NGO’s and insurance companies) can also benefit from a more clear, integrated and comprehensive performance assessment of urban infrastructure services.
