Artificial Intelligence (AI) has already revolutionized several industries (think about how Uber changed transportation or Amazon changed shopping). But how will it change water?

News that the Metro Nashville Council is close to approving an AI pilot program to improve the city’s water management system gives us some insight. The pilot project will use AI to analyze water pressure and flow rates to predict infrastructure problems – sometimes before they occur.

Across North America, AI is likely to revolutionize water management for utilities and water information for consumers. On the system side, AI allows for the type of predictive analytics and material sciences that could lead to a holistic approach to asset management, condition assessment and regeneration.

For all of us, advanced sensors in the water system and in the home can work alongside AI to provide information about water usage and help us make more informed decisions. More information about water quality and usage may help bridge the gap in public trust between utilities and underserved communities.