AS parts of efforts to better serve its customers, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is developing an app to aid in the timely reporting of leaks and other water-related issues.
The development of the app is already at the half way mark, the company’s Executive Director of Operations, Jawaharall, disclosed during a media briefing on Friday.
“This app will give the customer the ability to report a leak from their smartphones whether they are connected to the internet at the moment or not,” he said, adding that the name of the app is the leakage management app.
“So, wherever you see a GWI complaint, whether it’s a low pressure, contaminated water, or any operational issue, you’ll be able to [lodge a complaint] after downloading the app,” he said.
After taking a picture of the issue being complained about, he explained, that the location will be geo-referenced once the location on the owner’s phone is on. Giving details will also be an option provided by the app.
“As you click send, it will be monitored by a central dashboard. The dashboard is linked to the other satellite regions…your complaint will be dispatched to throw customer service out into the field,” Ramjug said.
He added that the application will reduce paperwork, improve efficiency and help to bridge the response time.
Meanwhile, Executive Director of Commercial Services and Customer Relations, Andrea Khan said that a meter reading management system has been developed. She explained that this will be used by their meter reading personnel and will provide the reading in a fast, accurate, and efficient manner.
“This will reduce any errors that may occur when a meter reader has to manually write or enter [information] into our billing system. The process will now be automated. The meter reading management system will also reduce estimated billings to ensure that customers are billed accurately and based on their actual consumption,” Khan said.
As part of the celebratory activities to mark its anniversary, GWI has launched a programme which is in keeping with plans to improve revenue collections while assisting customers to get access to potable water.
“This programme will be waiving the residential reconnection fee of $7,500 for those residential customers who are disconnected. This promotion starts today [May 13] and it goes until June 30,” Khan said.
To be eligible, she explained that customers who are disconnected must pay 50 per cent of their outstanding balances and GWI is willing to offer wallet-friendly payment plans to offset the remaining sum.
“We are urging persons because this is a limited-time offer to come into our office and take advantage of this programme,” she said.
Khan noted that GWI depends on its customers to improve their level of service and quality.