Sustainable Infrastructure Forum - Software Descriptions

CHECK-UP PROGRAM FOR SMALL SYSTEMS (CUPSS)

Small water and wastewater utilities continue to face serious infrastructure challenges, often beyond regulatory compliance. The Check-Up Program for Small Systems (CUPSS) is free, user-friendly asset management software that helps small systems manage and finance existing and future water infrastructure. CUPSS is a stand alone program,developed by EPA and delivered on CD to small drinking water and wastewater systems serving less than 3,300 customers. The tool integrates preventive maintenance, asset management, and full-cost pricing activities. No other free or commercially available product duplicates these features and is tailored to the unique needs of this audience. The software is based on worksheets provided in EPA’s existing print materials on these topics. CUPSS provides a comprehensive technical, managerial and financial foundation for routine operations as well as long term planning. A series of train-the-trainer workshops are planned for EPA’s regulatory and technical assistance partners.

DASHBOARD TECHNOLOGY

The Environmental Finance Center at Boise State University is developing a new tool for decision-makers to better understand sustainable infrastructure systems. The tool transforms data into an interactive dashboard-style visual display. This "dashboard" technology provides interesting gauges, similar to those in an automobile, to show key indicators of system sustainability. When completed, the dashboard tool will allow communities to enter strategic, operational, and financial data into an internet-based file which will transform the data into three main dashboard screens. Decision-makers will be able to assess their current conditions based on the indicators displayed. More importantly, the dashboard tool will give them a chance to model and look at the effect of strategic and financial decisions, to quickly assess how their actions (or inaction) will affect their environmental systems.

TOTAL ELECTRONIC ASSET MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (TEAMS)

Total Electronic Asset Management System was under a grant from the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). TEAMS is a fully customizable, open source software program that uses Microsoft Office Suite 97© and later to give operators an asset management system to make a facility more efficient in operational, financial, and compliance areas. Over time, the effects will be noticeable through inventories valued correctly, reduced breakdowns, the efficient use of equipment and personnel, and precise budgeting. Every asset, including collection system components, may be included in TEAMS. An analysis and evaluation process incorporates the steps to make financial decisions, prepare capital improvement program (CIP) plans, and determine rate structures.