British Water launches innovation search engine

– BWinnovate matches utility needs and supply chain solutions
– Detailed searches help identify most appropriate technologies
– Portal is open to the worldwide web and includes video and images

An innovation search engine that can help match utilities, industrial users and contractors with the water technologies they need has been launched by British Water. BWinnovate complements the trade association’s popular onsite Innovation Exchanges with utilities and other client organisations and the supply chain.

The searchable portal is hosted on the trade association’s website and seamlessly integrates with its member database. Members are invited to post as many innovative ‘solutions’ as they wish along with images, documents and video links.
Access to the searchable database is open to the worldwide web. A facility for member utilities and end-users to post their technology ‘needs’ in a section visible only to other members is also included.

Paul Mullord, UK director, British Water said, “BWinnovate is a natural extension of our popular Innovation Exchanges where supply chain companies present their services and technologies to potential clients. It allows our members to present to a global audience and facilitates detailed searches to help identify the most appropriate solutions available.

“BWinnovate is much more focused than a regular search engine and the benefit goes both ways. Those searching for innovations can find them all in one place and at their convenience.”

British Water has worked closely with its members to identify the most effective search criteria for the solutions. Prescribed categories include whether the solutions enhance health and safety, productivity and sustainability or whether they are water, wastewater or environmental solutions.

Doug Workman, president of Modern Water Monitoring said, “The water industry needs innovation, but it is not always easy for busy project managers and consultancies to identify the most appropriate technologies. Modern Water will certainly be making use of BWinnovate and the more companies that get involved, the greater the benefit for customers.”

Dr Stephen Bird, managing director, South West Water said, “BWinnovate is a very useful search engine for utilities. It creates an easily accessible library of innovation across multiple companies. It sits in one place, can be accessed at any time and is continually updated. It could save businesses valuable time and contribute to major cost savings across all operations.”

Mullord added, “The industry is under considerable pressure to cut costs while conserving water and reducing carbon footprint. BWinnovate can help stakeholders identify solutions that can truly benefit their customers. I believe it will prove particularly beneficial in the new retail market.”

More information: BWInnovate