Stakeholder perspectives on digital transformation of water and wastewater management in Turkiye

ABSTRACT Digitalization enables real-time monitoring, optimization, and predictive analytics in water and wastewater management. However, gaps remain across societal, economic, governance, and research domains. This study examines stakeholder perceptions and experiences regarding the transition toward digital solutions in Turkiye’s water and wastewater sector. An online survey received 101 responses; 96 valid responses were retained for analysis. The main barriers to digital transformation include insufficient funding, limited human capacity, restrictive management practices, and data-related constraints. Mann–Whitney U analyses revealed no statistically significant differences between academic and government stakeholders regarding major digital transformation barriers, although the comparison had limited statistical power. Within each group’s own ranking, the leading perceived benefits were ensuring water quality and achieving water savings for government institutions, improving creativity, productivity, and motivation for academia; of the two benefit items presented identically to both groups, easier data exchange was valued significantly more highly by academia. Two stakeholder focus groups further identified and prioritized key barriers, including lack of standardized data management workflows, weak coordination and data sharing among stakeholders, and limited digitally skilled personnel. Recommended measures include standardized protocols, strategic workforce planning, and evidence-based governance mechanisms to support a more integrated and resilient digital water management framework in Turkiye.