In July, we reconvened Stream’s Steering Group which comprises experts that represent water companies, regulators, research, innovation bodies and government. 

Co-chaired by Icebreaker One and NWL, the group’s primary function is to help provide leadership and market signalling. Oversight of, and endorsement from, this group will establish a lasting set of robust governance measures to ensure data is shared safely and with the correct regulations.

Date: 21 July 2025 10:00-12:00 BST

Location: online

Co-Chairs: Andrew Myers (NWL) (stepping in for Melissa Tallack (NWL)); Gavin Starks (IB1)

Secretariat: IB1

Meeting Aims:

  1. Sentiment and comments on end of phase report 
  1. Decision around revisiting the use case 
  1. Impact and outcomes

Summary:

  • It was noted that members should be working towards a position where their votes are formal endorsements on behalf of their organisation.
    • In addition, it was noted that in any vote, there is an option to delegate responsibility.
  • It was noted that there were a couple of OKRs that did not progress from last quarter, including one regarding the engagement of legal representatives from water companies. This OKR was put on hold due to not getting a full list of names nor a tangible use case for legal teams to dig in as a reference point.
  • It was noted that public interest and search on the Stream platform for the reservoir dataset has increased.
    • It was discussed that it would be worth revisiting this dataset now that demand is there, particularly during a dry period, to help drive behavioural changes.
    • It was noted that in order to understand the true impact of the data, we need to engage with users to find out how they are using the data, which could be done via a short survey or blog post that notes Stream’s response to reservoir concern and how we are responding to it.
  • It was noted that Stream’s LinkedIn lead magnet and  external newsletters have been well received, with a strong open rate and subscriber list.
  • It was noted that internal newsletters are not performing as well currently, particularly click through rate, which is being addressed by trialling a few different features.
  • It was noted that an end of phase report has been written and shared with members to incite feedback and to ensure there was a general consensus on the benefits articulated.
  • It was noted that
    • Stream has elevated the importance of open data within organisations, enabling increased executive engagement and supporting internal project advancement.
    • the foundational infrastructure established through Stream enabled the delivery of projects such as the National Storm Overflow Hub.
    • the attraction of additional funding validates the credibility of Stream.
  • It was discussed that
    • Stream facilitates sector-wide conversations that individual companies may not be well-positioned to initiate, particularly with external stakeholders who are critical of the water sector.
    • external testimonials from users and organisations that have benefited from Stream would strengthen the evidence of impact.
  • It was noted that
    • the report was well received, with Stream’s role in improving transparency and APR data quality highlighted as key achievements.
    • there is good consensus amongst members that it’s hard to bring a complex set of organisations together and maintain activity.
    • the report should also acknowledge the challenges that have been faced, highlighting where the initiative has had to pivot during implementation.
    • outcome metrics and public benefit assessments are considered to support external communication and more effective stakeholder engagement.
  • It was discussed that
    • the value of data should be recognised across its full lifecycle, not only when converted into insight or wisdom
    • third-party and indirect reuse of Stream data (e.g. sewage mapping tools) may extend its reach beyond what is currently measured.
  • It was noted that two new working groups are in need of member support: Open October Planning and Technology Tool Stack Framework, and a registration form was provided for expressions of interest.