While the 9th cycle of the program, covering 2024 utility data, was already launched earlier this year, this workshop marked a turning point in the structure and schedule of the program itself. For the first time, utilities that submitted data early will receive their reports already by the end of Q2 - part of a broader shift to earlier submissions, faster feedback, and more timely action.

UBP is a core element of D-LeaP, the Danube Learning Partnership, designed to support water utilities in tracking performance, identifying improvement areas, and exchanging with peers across the region. Benchmarking—systematically comparing performance indicators among similar utilities—is at the heart of the program, and workshops like this one are where the data becomes dialogue.

Benchmarking, i.e. systematically collecting a set of performance indicators and using those to compare performance among utilities of similar size and conditions, is a major tool to improve water utility performance. The Utility Benchmarking Program aims to build and enlarge a network of utilities that jointly work on improving their services over time. The Program is organized in national and regional level Hubs operated with support from the relevant water associations. Workshops like the one reported here serve to exchange information, experiences and best practice examples.

This two-day event brought important updates on the new benchmarking cycle structure and treated the participants to a lively mix of theory, knowledge sharing, and practical groupwork, using real life case studies.

Icebreaking activities like a Benchmarking Bingo helped participants to connect with colleagues from other utilities, and an accompanying social program, including a networking dinner, build a group spirit that promises future productive exchanges and knowledge sharing between utilities. Which is what the UBP is about.

Needless to say, the participants left the UBP event heading straight for this year's Danube Water Conference. They went as a group, packing a lunch-to-go, courtesy of the Utility Benchmarking Program.

Now well into its 9th cycle, UBP is expanding its reach and sharpening its tools. As always, it relies on the active participation, feedback, and ambassador spirit of its members to grow stronger.

Thank you, participants, and best wishes for your future business success!