Using Data for Water Decision-Making

Achieving safe, sustainable water services in low—and middle-income countries requires more than data collection. The challenge lies in using data for water decision-making, translating numbers into action and insights into results.

Aquaya’s new report, “Data for Decision-Making,” explores why this often isn’t the case and what can be done about it.

Understanding the Disconnect

Governments and development partners have invested significantly in data systems, monitoring tools, and dashboards. Yet, many water-related decisions are still not guided by evidence. Why?

Often, the systems used to collect and manage data are disconnected from those responsible for making decisions. As a result:

• Decision-makers may not have access to the right data when they need it
• Available data may be too delayed or too complex to support practical decisions
• There may be limited capacity or institutional motivation to act on the data

Insights from the Field

This report draws on interviews with 65 decision-makers across Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, and India, including national ministries, regulators, utilities, and NGOs. Key findings include:

• A strong interest in using data for decision-making, but limited support to do so
• Structural and political factors that can inhibit data transparency and use
• Concerns about data quality, availability, and unclear data ownership

Principles for Bridging the Gap

The report outlines five principles to support more effective use of data:

1. Build Trust – Ensure transparency around data collection, quality, and ownership
2. Improve Accessibility – Provide data that is timely, relevant, and easy to use
3. Strengthen Capacity – Equip decision-makers with the skills and tools to use data
4. Align Incentives – Create institutional frameworks that reward evidence-based decisions
5. Design for Use – Start with the decision context, not just data availability

Moving Forward

To achieve meaningful progress toward SDG 6, the water sector must shift its focus from simply collecting data to ensuring that data is used in decisions that matter. This requires embedding data systems into the broader decision-making processes they are meant to support.

Read the full report to learn more about the challenges and practical recommendations: