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Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) can help facilitate the successful adoption of innovative digital solutions by water utilities. However, little is known about the processes used to adopt this model, including the initial challenges and required utility maturity factors. This study engaged diverse stakeholders through a service design approach to support water utilities in evaluating their suitability to adopt DaaS. The findings demonstrate an innovative method by which both DaaS providers and utilities can better analyze their needs and strategic interests, and those of the people they serve. In so doing, they can co-create mutual trust needed to tackle complex water policy challenges. • Data-as-a-Service adoption is limited by procurement processes and water utility culture. • A utility decision support tool should be tailored, interactive, and prove the business case. • The service design method can effectively engage diverse, water industry stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While technologies in the water sector have been advancing over the past few decades, complementary innovation in business models is needed to support the adoption of these technologies. One emerging opportunity is an outsourced approach to data collection, delivery, and analysis known as "Data-as-a-Service." This study is the first to explore the drivers, barriers, and implementation trends for water and wastewater utilities to adopt this model. The findings provide valuable insights for utility managers looking for new ways to adopt innovative technologies and regulators and policymakers seeking to encourage utilities to make data-driven decisions. • Data-as-a-Service can facilitate the uptake of innovative solutions within the water sector. • The main utility motivations to adopt Data-as-a-Service were ease of operation and reduced risk. • Besides having internal solutions, the main barriers were data ownership and security concerns. • Wastewater utilities appear to have more complex data management needs than water utilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]