Can a game help the water sector improve maintenance planning?

Sweden’s water and wastewater networks are under pressure from several converging issues: ageing infrastructure, deferred maintenance, climate change, and a shortage of skilled professionals.

“Many people don’t realise how serious the situation is, nor do they consider the risks this poses to society. If our pipes break, there’s no water from the tap, no flushing toilets – society comes to a halt”, says Emmanuel Okwori, researcher at RISE and project lead for the research project “Data-Driven Asset Management through Gamification”.

Nearly 70% of the water pipes buried beneath Swedish roads are approaching 100 years old – the point at which they should ideally be replaced. Replacing all pipes at once is unfeasible and would require enormous investments. Smarter prioritisation is needed to move forward.

In addition to ageing and neglected infrastructure, Sweden is also facing a skills shortage in the sector.

“Those with the right expertise often don’t have the time to tackle these massive challenges while also exploring new methods and tools. Even though data is available – and we now have support from AI and machine learning – it’s something people need to learn how to use. That’s where the idea of a game started to take shape”, explains Emmanuel Okwori.

Games as a method are often underestimated

RISE is leading the research project “Data-Driven Asset Management through Gamification”, funded by the Swedish research council Formas. The aim is to develop an interactive simulation game that demonstrates how data-driven models can be used to plan and prioritise maintenance efforts. The hope is that the game will also serve as an educational tool for skills development within municipal and private water organisations.

“Games as a method are often underestimated. If developed with strong game design, they can deepen understanding of scenario management and enhance learning. That’s why it was natural for us to collaborate with an established game development company”, says Björn Flintberg, researcher at RISE and responsible for the simulator’s development within the project.

Pär Hultgren, CEO of Skellefteå-based Gold Town Games, which is developing the game together with RISE, adds:

“We’re excited to combine our expertise in management games with RISE research capabilities. Creating an interactive prototype for maintenance planning in the water sector means we can help the industry reduce costs, optimise resources, and build for sustainable growth.”

AI-Based models can support more sustainable resource use

The prototype is expected to be completed during the first half of 2026 and will then be tested with representatives from the water sector. The goal is to demonstrate how AI-based models can support decision-making and contribute to more sustainable resource use.

“Given the ageing infrastructure in Sweden’s water systems and the significant investment and maintenance needs, it’s crucial to anticipate risks and make data-driven decisions. This can save societal resources and improve maintenance efforts”, says Emmanuel Okwori at RISE.