AWWA ACE61882

This paper explores the development of a technology master plan to create a comprehensive strategy that integrates business needs with information technology for utilities and affiliated government departments. It presents a case study that examines how the City of Columbus, Ohio, Department of Public Utilities (DPU) developed its technology master plan to best leverage existing systems with new technology investments. The purpose of the technology master plan is to: identify technology projects that will improve service and employee productivity by increasing cost effectiveness and efficiencies while providing end-users access to timely, accurate information for decision-making; establish a framework to guide and monitor technology investments; develop an inventory of technology currently in use; provide recommendations regarding potential synergy between departments for technology and standard applications; and, define IT investments for the next 3-5 years. Business results, not the technology itself, should shape the planning process. In Columbus, City personnel are being driven to think like entrepreneurs and new technology is one tool to help address that push. To make the best use of available technology, however, each application must be assessed for its value and the way it can enhance coordination across the operation for maximum Return-on-Investment (ROI). The cost-benefit equation was considered for every technology in the Columbus plan. Questions were asked such as, Who uses the technology? How do they use it? Who supports the technology? How is it supported? These considerations, along with cost of hardware, cost of software, cost of training, and long-term lifecycle costs, were examined in detail. In the end, the master plan prioritizes technology upgrades based on expected ROI along with potential constraints to implementation, including funding, cash flow, existing departmental policies, and local political pressures. This paper explores how Columbus completed the entire process in just 12 weeks, establishing a master plan that serves as DPU's road map for technology. Includes figure.