Unlocking the power of water data: A case study for the Flemish water data space

This case study showcases the successful collaboration between PwC and Restless Minds™ in developing a strategic vision and action plan for the Flemish Water Data Space, a project commissioned by the Flemish Environment Agency.

Client: CIW
Year: 2024
Partners: Cronos Public Services & PWC
Role: Change strategy, creative direction, change marketing

In 2023, the Flemish Coordination Committee for Integrated Water Policy (CIW) saw the urgent need to update how water data is managed in Flanders. The current system was scattered, with data trapped in separate places, making it hard for different groups to work together and make good decisions. To fix this, the CIW wanted to create the Flemish Water Data Space, a central hub where everyone could easily share and use water data. To make this happen, they teamed up with PwC and Restless Minds™. We worked together to create a plan and get everyone excited about this new way of handling water data.

  • The primary challenge lay in overcoming the fragmentation and siloed nature of water data across Flanders. Data existed in disparate systems, formats, and standards, making it difficult to access, integrate, and analyze. Moreover, there was a lack of clear governance and collaboration frameworks to facilitate data sharing and utilization. We needed to address these challenges to create a truly unified and effective Water Data Space.

  • Our solution was a multi-faceted approach that combined PwC's strategic consulting expertise with Restless Minds™' stakeholder engagement and communication capabilities. We began by conducting extensive research and interviews to understand the current landscape and identify key pain points. We then facilitated co-creation workshops to foster collaboration and generate innovative ideas.

    A crucial aspect of our solution was the development of a robust governance framework that clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes. We also created engagement models to ensure active participation from local authorities, private partners, and scientific institutions. Finally, we designed a comprehensive communication strategy to foster understanding and buy-in from all stakeholders.

  • Beyond the platform itself, we developed compelling case studies and innovative concepts to attract investment and guide future development, highlighting the potential benefits and return on investment. The Flemish Water Data Space serves as a model for successful data initiatives in the water sector, fostering sustainable practices and collaborative innovation.

Define
the change

  • Conducted interviews with stakeholders from the CIW: Gathered insights and expectations from key individuals and organizations involved in water management.

  • Consolidated and analyzed interview findings: Identified key themes, pain points, and opportunities related to water data management.

  • Organized a kick-off workshop with the steering committee: Aligned on project goals, established clear expectations, and fostered collaboration among decision-makers.

To lay a solid foundation for the Flemish Water Data Space, we conducted in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, meticulously documenting existing data exchange initiatives and identifying areas for improvement. By consolidating and analyzing these findings, we identified key themes and priorities that would shape the project. We also organized a kick-off workshop with the steering committee to ensure alignment and set clear expectations.

Inspire
the change

  • Organized an inspiration and vision workshop: Showcased international best practices and technological advancements to spark enthusiasm and demonstrate the transformative potential of the project.

  • Facilitated a co-creation session to define the ambition, scope, and use cases: Engaged stakeholders in collaborative brainstorming and ideation to shape the vision and objectives of the Water Data Space.

  • Developed a radical use case: Created a compelling example to illustrate the tangible benefits and potential impact of the Water Data Space.

We facilitated co-creation workshops and an inspiration and vision workshop to foster collaboration, generate innovative ideas, and showcase the Water Data Space's transformative potential. A pivotal moment was the development of a "radical use case," illustrating the platform's tangible benefits and potential for widespread impact.

Guide
the change

  • Developed a governance charter: Established clear roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes to ensure effective management and evolution of the Water Data Space.

  • Created engagement frameworks for collaboration: Designed tailored approaches to foster collaboration with local authorities, private partners, and scientific institutions.

  • Designed a comprehensive communication strategy: Developed a plan to ensure effective knowledge transfer, stakeholder buy-in, and ongoing engagement throughout the implementation process.

We provided concrete guidance and support to ensure successful implementation. This included developing a comprehensive governance charter, creating tailored engagement frameworks for diverse stakeholders, and designing a communication strategy to foster understanding and buy-in.