In this episode of the Make Water Work podcast, hosts Isaac Pellerin and Megan Glover talk with Chris Sosnowski, founder and CEO of Waterly. They discuss the critical importance of data quality in water management, the evolution of Waterly, and the challenges faced by public water systems. Chris shares insights from his journey in the water industry, emphasizing the need for human validation in data management and the significant role of cybersecurity in ensuring the safety and reliability of water systems. The conversation highlights the importance of staying connected to customers, learning from their experiences, and the ongoing need for innovation in the water sector.

Takeaways

• Data quality is crucial for effective water management.

• Human validation is necessary for accurate water quality data.

• Waterly was born from the need for affordable software solutions.

• The water industry is slow to adopt new technologies due to fear of change.

• Cybersecurity is a significant concern for water systems.

• Operators need to be proactive in managing cybersecurity risks.

• Standardization of data is essential for effective water management.

• Engaging with customers is key to understanding their needs.

• The majority of data in water management is still entered by humans.

• Continuous learning and humility are vital for entrepreneurs.