Barriers to Technology Adoption in the Water Treatment Industry

This honors project focuses on barriers to technology adoption in the drinking water treatment industry. The scope of this project considers these barriers as they relate to general technology and with a specific focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twins. To better understand these barriers, prior research and case studies are analyzed. The case studies include reports provided by Fontus Blue, a water treatment software provider based in Akron, Ohio. The case studies exhibit the benefits and challenges of integrating new technology, including AI systems. With the context of these case studies in mind, a survey was distributed to water system superintendents, chief operators, and others. Key results from the survey indicate that cybersecurity concerns and lack of funding are leading barriers affecting technology integration. Similar data was gathered specifically for AI adoption, and the results indicate that lack of funding, cybersecurity concerns, and lack of understanding of AI are all significant obstacles inhibiting further technology adoption. This is due in part to the relative lack of understanding of AI among respondents. The results indicate that compared to traditional technology options, there is a significant lack of understanding of what AI is and the associated benefits