Operationalizing water infrastructure asset management via a practice-oriented learning model: lessons from Swedish utilities

ABSTRACT Water utilities often struggle to operationalize infrastructure asset management due to limited cross-functional alignment, resource constraints, and capability gaps. This paper presents a practice-oriented learning methodology with a supporting process architecture, trialled with Swedish water utilities to help bridge these gaps. The approach structures learning as an iterative cycle of planning, delivery, reflection, and adaptation across sessions. The following six reinforcing mechanisms underpin the observed outcomes: (1) a sequenced activity chain that builds momentum; (2) a sandbox environment that fosters psychological safety through regular check-ins and low-stakes exploration; (3) cross-utility exchange that broadens perspectives; (4) local application to ensure contextual relevance; (5) physical anchors and concrete examples that deepen understanding; and (6) continuous improvement driven by collective reflection and feedback. The outcomes were assessed using brief self-reporting surveys and review of implementation artifacts to gauge delivery quality, learning progression, and practical uptake. Participating utilities moved from establishing a shared asset management vocabulary to early strategic application, and a clearly articulated need for an ongoing community of practice. To support wider adoption, a minimal replication kit is also presented. The architecture provides a concise, pathway for operationalizing water infrastructure asset management under real-world constraints.