In a progressive move toward modernizing municipal operations, Metro Nashville Water Services (MWS) Water Reclamation Facilities (WRFs) and Route Services (RS) groups recently embraced a digital transformation.
MWS deployed Cityworks AMS, a leading asset management solution designed to optimize infrastructure operations and maintenance. This effort is part of the broader Community Asset and Land Use (CAL) cross-departmental initiative aimed at enhancing coordination and efficiency throughout Metro Nashville.
Faced with the challenge of maintaining over 175 water and wastewater pumping stations, three WRFs, and one Biosolids facility, MWS turned to KCI to implement Cityworks AMS. This modern solution aimed to replace a legacy maintenance management system and provide a scalable platform capable of delivering detailed asset insights and facilitating proactive maintenance.
Transitioning to a fully digital system not only aligns with current industry trends but also provides MWS with streamlined processes for maintenance, cost tracking, and operational efficiencies.The project also included migrating thousands of asset records into a newly designed geodatabase. Advanced tools were used to extract, organize, and import the data, creating a foundation for accuracy and usability. GIS mapping technology was employed to develop detailed digital representations of the facilities and their layouts. By digitizing sub-areas and pinpointing asset locations, the system will provide MWS staff with a clear and comprehensive view of their infrastructure. The database enables efficient tracking of equipment changes, proactive inventory management of critical spares, and precise cost association with individual assets.
As a result, the geodatabase consists of more than 3,200 pump station assets and more than 5,300 facility assets.Equally important to the project’s success was the early involvement of MWS stakeholders and a proactive approach to change management. From the outset, the implementation team prioritized stakeholder engagement through champion empowerment, user campaigns, and iterative feedback loops to align the system with end-user needs. Change champions were identified and empowered, while proactive communications, including emails and strategically placed posters, helped foster awareness and positive attitudes toward the new system.
The deployment of Cityworks AMS was carried out over two intensive weeks, with the first focused on Facilities and the second on Route Services. Each week began with thorough classroom-style training sessions, ensuring users were well-prepared, and transitioned into a go-live phase with dedicated onsite support.
As part of the rollout, more than 100 iPads were distributed and over 150 users were equipped with the tools and training needed to succeed. Posters placed in key locations reinforced messaging and helped keep staff informed throughout the transition.Early results demonstrate the transformative potential of this deployment. By adopting fully digital work order management processes, MWS aims to enhance overall operational efficiency. Mobile devices will provide increased accessibility to vital information in the field, empowering staff to respond more effectively. The system will also enable better tracking and adherence to preventive maintenance schedules, ensuring that essential tasks are completed on time.
Within the first week of deployment, MWS staff logged thousands of work activities, completing nearly 300 work orders using fully digital workflows.Additionally, the detailed asset work and cost histories captured in the system will allow for more informed decision-making and the development of targeted maintenance plans for specific problem stations, areas, and assets. A standardized asset inventory will support future growth and facilitate the adoption of advanced technologies. Finally, the system will empower individual staff members to track their learning progress and performance, with tools like Knowledge, Skills, and Ability (KSA) reports supporting their growth and promotional opportunities.
The success of Cityworks AMS at MWS underscores the value of collaboration and thoughtful planning. By embracing a digital-first approach, Metro Nashville positions itself as a leader in municipal infrastructure management, poised to deliver lasting benefits to its community and stakeholders.