The last blog post (Aug 14) discussed some of the results from questions we asked NTNC operators at a recent workshop Brad Larson attended for SmallWaterSupply.org.  Here are the rest of those results.

What Resources Would You Like To See

Operators listed the websites they use for finding information to help them complete their duties.  We also asked them what they would like to see on the web and this is what they told us:

• User-friendly regulatory information (rules as they apply to specific examples)
• Sampling/reporting forms and resources
• Alternative system information
• Contractor search
• Online forum
• Best practices for O & M procedures

Last week, the Midwest Technology Assistance Center (MTAC) at the University of Illinois and the Illinois Rural Water Association put on a recertification workshop for Non-Transient, Non-Community (NTNC) operators.  33 NTNC operators whose licences were expired or were about to expire attended and renewed their certification.  Brad Larson attended the workshop, talked to the operators about SmallWaterSupply.org, and asked them a few questions about their concerns and needs, as well as, about their use of the web in finding information to help them do their jobs.

Biggest Problems They Face As An Operator

They listed 7 issues amoung the 33 responses: Equipment, Contaminants, Financial Issues, Source Water, Management, Distribution System, and Regulatory Requirements.  I think that just about covers it!  It's not surprising that these small systems, many with unique issues community supplies don't have to deal with, still list their biggest issues as being those we hear about routinely among all Water Operators.

Using The Web To Do Their Jobs

17 operators said they do use the web to help them in doing their jobs.  Honestly, I expected the number to be lower for NTNC Operators.  Most of these supplies are rural, and likely lacking more than dial-up capability.  I know how frustrating the web can be at that speed.  So, to hear that half are using the web is encouraging, not only for what we are trying to build here, but to know that operators are using all that is available to them to do the best job they can.

The Resources They Use

They listed the following web resources as where they go to get information for performing their duties as an operator: Illinois EPA, USEPA, Various water/wastewater websites, Research, Reference, Online maintenance requests, wastewater reports, and vendor sites.  Again, this looks like the same sort of sites most of us would use to solve a problem, find an answer, or find some help.

More Next Time

Next week, I'll post the rest of the results of Brad's efforts.  Our goal is to focus our efforts on providing the materials, information, and assistance that operators tell us they would like to see on the web.  How about you?  What information would you like to see on our webpage?  What types of services could we provide to help you get the information you need in a simple way?  

I realize it's been over two weeks since our last post, and I'm sorry about that.  We've had vacations, conferences, workshops, and meetings getting in the way, as well as our staff working very hard to build the databases of information we will be serving you all. 

Where We Are

We are up to 4217 documents, as of a few minutes ago.  There will be many more before we even get through all of the TA providers, Federal Agencies, and state providers' websites.  In addition, we have begun developing the database of calendar information and we have over 470 events, workshops, trainings, and meetings in that database as well.

Where We Are Headed

All of this information is all well and good, I understand, but until its available in an easy to find and use form, it isn't that helpful.  So, the work that Brad and Nathaniel are doing to provide an easy to use, helpful interface is critical.  We are getting there for sure.  Below are screen shots of the draft document search and calendar pages, as well as a rudimentary Forum page.  We are getting there......

Click on the image to open it in a new window, then click on it again to enlarge it (it's much more readable that way!)